This movie is actually an adaptation of a book of the same name by Leon Chambers, which is quite difficult to find nowadays.
It's not as influential as A Thief in the Night, nor as popular as the Left Behind series was. Years of the Beast manages to cover the Tribulation period (seven years in dispensationalism) in a single movie. No mean feat, and sets itself apart in the genre.
The movie has its issues; poor lighting at times, and some of the acting is stilted. Certainly the special effects are showing their age.
This is a pre-tribulation Rapture movie, however it doesn't dwell on the Rapture as much as many other end time films. It's more concerned with believers trying to survive the Tribulation, which may be of interest for those who hold to a post-Trib position.
It manages to narrate geopolitical events without needing to have its main characters present for every significant event. It generally takes a smaller scale view. Our protagonists become the target of vengeful local law enforcement and militia, which is probably more realistic. These are things, the Left Behind series just couldn't do.
I know I'm comparing movies a lot, but one more point. This movie doesn't rely on shock value like Thief in the Night does; and it manages to tell its story in a much more succinct manner than Left Behind. Whether this makes it better is up to individual judgment. However it stands apart because of it, and worthy viewing for those interested in Bible prophecy.
