Daybreak (1993)

Before the Netflix sitcom Daybreak (2019) was streamed and the horror flick Daybreakers (2009) was released in theaters, HBO’s own Daybreak (1993) hit cable television. Equal parts action, romance, science fiction, and thriller, the TV movie is totally sexy since it features Cuba Gooding Jr. on the eve of his Jerry Maguire (1996) breakthrough. Based on Alan Bowne’s play Beirut (1987), Stephen Tolkin’s small screen adaptation is set in the near future. The cast includes John (The Deer Hunter) Savage as the President and Phil (Saturday Night Live) Hartman as a man in an abstinence commercial. Needless to say, this multi-genre movie has it all — including a dystopian story with a quarantine camp. How prophetic is that? As people (David Eigenberg, John Cameron Mitchell, Martha Plimpton, Omar Epps, Willie Garson) struggle to survive in a devastated New York City, the aptly-named Torch (Gooding) heats up the lens by exposing his fine physique. For example, there are a couple of scenes that have Cuba walking around in nothing but snug-fitting briefs. As you can guess, he is packing some serious luggage down below. Even though Mr. Gooding doesn’t deliver all of the goods, he does serve up his buns. In fact, you’ll be shouting, “Show me the booty!” when he undresses for a steamy sex scene with Blue (Moira Kelly). Fast forward to the 46-minute mark to ogle Cuba’s bare back, naked chest and raw rump during the hump. Granted, this flesh flash is fast but that’s what freeze frame is for!