April Film Releases: What’s New in Theaters and Streaming
As the month unfolds, a variety of films are gracing screens both at home and in cinemas. Here’s a roundup of notable titles you won’t want to miss.
The Shrouds
Directed by David Cronenberg, this sci-fi drama stars Vincent Cassel as Karsh, a grieving inventor who creates a system of cameras to be buried with the deceased, allowing relatives to observe the process of decomposition. This innovation captures public interest until a series of grave desecrations lead to a tense investigation involving Karsh and his brother-in-law, portrayed by Guy Pearce. According to critics, the film balances a restrained portrayal of horror with a poignant exploration of grief, making for a unique cinematic experience.
Release Date: April 18 in the US
On Swift Horses
This period romantic drama directed by Daniel Minhan features Daisy Edgar-Jones as Muriel, the fiancée of a Korean War veteran, Lee (Will Poulter). Their idyllic life is interrupted when Lee’s brother Julius (Jacob Elordi) arrives and helps Muriel discover her attraction to women amidst the vibrant culture of 1950s California. The film has sparked discussions for its heartfelt representation of love and self-discovery, though opinions on its execution vary among critics.
Release Dates: April 25 in the US and Canada; April 30 in France
The Legend of Ochi
Set on a secluded Eastern European island, this family-friendly adventure tells the story of a farmer, played by Willem Dafoe, obsessed with hunting mystical creatures known as Ochi. His daughter finds a baby Ochi and decides to return it to its family, leading to a journey depicted with practical effects reminiscent of classic 1980s adventure films. Critics have praised its nostalgic flair and innovative use of puppetry.
Release Date: April 25 in the US, UK, Canada, and Ireland
Sinners
In this genre-blending tale from Ryan Coogler, Michael B. Jordan plays twin brothers in 1930s Louisiana encountering supernatural forces tied to local blues music. With a focus on philosophical exploration through horror elements, Coogler emphasizes that while vampires play a role, the film encompasses a wide range of genres and themes.
Release Date: April 18 internationally
Drop
This one-location thriller from Christopher Landon features Meghann Fahy as Violet, a single mother whose seemingly simple dinner date turns life-threatening when she receives ominous messages about her son. The tight storytelling and suspenseful direction have garnered positive reviews for creating a captivating viewing experience.
Release Date: April 11 internationally
Warfare
Co-directed by Alex Garland and veteran Ray Mendoza, this 90-minute film recreates a real battle, portraying the chaos and intensity of warfare through a real-time lens. Critics have lauded it as one of the most authentic depictions of war onscreen, offering a visceral experience that resonates deeply with audiences.
Release Dates: April 11 in the US and Canada; April 16 in Spain; April 17 in various other regions; April 18 in the UK
One to One: John & Yoko
This documentary by Kevin Macdonald follows John Lennon and Yoko Ono during their time in New York in the early 1970s. It explores their artistic and activist endeavors, using a blend of archival footage and personal recordings. The film offers a glimpse into their efforts to fight social injustice, from the Vietnam War to prison reform, reflecting on their cultural significance.
Release Date: April 11 in the US, UK, and Ireland
G20
In this action-packed thriller directed by Patricia Riggen, Viola Davis stars as President Danielle Sutton. During a G20 summit in South Africa, she must confront terrorists holding world leaders hostage. The film combines elements of humor and action, creating a unique narrative centered around a strong female lead in an extraordinary scenario.
Release Date: April 10 on Prime Video
A Minecraft Movie
Adapted from the popular video game, this children’s film features live-action actors, including Jack Black and Jason Momoa, living in a CGI world. Directed by Jared Hess, the film is anticipated to capture a similar success to other recent animated adaptations, blending humor with the adventurous spirit of the game.
Release Date: April 4 internationally
Sacramento
This indie comedy follows two friends on a road trip to Sacramento, exploring themes of friendship and fatherhood. Michael Angarano not only stars in the film but also directs, showcasing his growth as a filmmaker. Critics appreciate its genuine depiction of personal challenges and the bond between characters.
Release Date: April 11 in the US
The Wedding Banquet
A remake of Ang Lee’s notable 1993 film, this version reinterprets the story through a contemporary lens, examining societal expectations and personal commitments in a modern context. Featuring a diverse cast, the film reflects on themes of love and family dynamics.
Release Date: April 18 in the US and Canada