Steel Dawn (VHS Cover) Steel Dawn is a 1988 post-apocalyptic science fiction film directed by Lance Hool and starring Patrick Swayze. The VHS cover refers to the home video release of this movie, which was popular during the late 20th century for distributing films on cassette tapes in a format that could be played in VHS players. The film takes place in a desolate future where society has collapsed and survivors must fight for their survival against mutants and other hostile elements. Steel Dawn follows the story of a knight named Sybok who takes on the task of protecting a group of settlers from these threats while also searching for a way to rebuild civilization. The VHS cover art typically features key imagery from the film, such as Swayze's character in his armored attire or scenes depicting post-apocalyptic landscapes and action sequences.