Hardware
Performance & Direction: Hardware Review
Last updated: February 19, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Hardware (1990) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Hardware features a noteworthy lineup led by Dylan McDermott . Supported by the likes of Stacey Travis and John Lynch , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Hardware
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1990, Hardware is a Horror, Science Fiction, Thriller film directed by Richard Stanley. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Dylan McDermott.
Ending Explained: Hardware
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Richard Stanley, Hardware attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Dylan McDermott, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Hardware reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Hardware?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Hardware
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $1.5M |
| Worldwide Gross | $5.7M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Hardware Budget
The estimated production budget for Hardware is $1.5M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Hardware
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Where to Watch Hardware Online?
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Apple TV StoreAmazon VideoFetch TVHardware Parents Guide & Age Rating
1990 AdvisoryWondering about Hardware age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Hardware is 93 minutes (1h 33m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.9/10, and global performance metrics, Hardware is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1990 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hardware worth watching?
Hardware is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 5.9/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Hardware parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Hardware identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Hardware?
The total duration of Hardware is 93 minutes, which is approximately 1h 33m long.
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How Hardware Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Hardware
IMO - It's not terrible but not a masterpiece either. I personally liked the villain robot, and a lot of the movies' aesthetics were just pure eye candy. That aside, the movie was a little too slow paced for the style that it was going with, and some of the music and sound effects were a little silly. You get to listen to Iggy say a few amusing lines on the radio in the beginning and the end of the movie. Overall, not bad, a little boring at times. A good watch if you're into cyberpunk.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
