Name that film... sci fi desert alternate reality

Hi All, So, I remember watching a film late at night / evening in the 90's. It would have been on TV so potentially an 80s film. I have spent many evenings trying to search it down but have struggled to do so. The salient points are a little blurry but here's what I remember: - In some kind of desert environment - Potentially alternate reality / VR / time travel - People would die in a very specific unwrapping special effect - at the time I remember thinking this effect was exceptionally good - I want to say it has a "western" feel to it? Also maybe something to do with a lift? Sorry it's all so hazy - it's very unlikely that someone will know the film but given how hard I have looked I figured it was worth a try! Any ideas most welcome. It doesn't give much to go on