Best Films and TV Shows Dropping in April

Though we are already a few days into the month of April, there is a lot in store for us when it comes to the big screen… er little screen for that matter. As the world of film and entertainment has already seen a strong start so far this year with such hits as Jordan Peele’s Get Out — which has gone on to become the highest grossing debut film for an original screenplay — to arguably one of the best comic-book films Logan, April will be bringing us an array of cinematic and small screen gems. Though we all have our own tastes, the list below are some of the more “must-see” releases, whether it be action, anime or sci-fi to look forward to in April.

Film

Teen Titans: The Judas Contract – April 4

Many would say that DC’s animated films have been just as good as your average Marvel production. With last year’s Justice League vs Teen Titans introducing the “Jr. Leaguers” to the franchise, the new film will spotlight the team’s most famous storyline: Titan Terra is introduced to the team while the villainous Brother Blood enlists Deathstroke to abduct the Titans.

your name – April 7

Technically a 2016 release, your name finally sees a proper stateside distribution this month. Often called one of the best movies from last year — even featured on our “The Best Films of 2016″ list — the film’s creator, Makoto Shinkai could well be the successor to Hayao Miyazaki, the mastermind behind Studio Ghibli. Grossing ¥10 billion JPY (approximately $99 million USD) in just 28 days, the tale of star-crossed lovers gives viewers a breathtaking look on a body-swap romance, unlike anything else.

The Void – April 7

Horror fans will be in for a treat with the latest offering The Void. Taking place in a hospital, the staff and other patients are in for a rude awakening. Over time the patients and staff begin to go insane, causing chaos within the facility and eventually finding a manner in which to welcome evil with open arms.

Colossal – April 7

The film centres around Anne Hathaway’s character Gloria, a 20-something-year-old going through a crisis while living in New York City. Gloria then realizes she has a Godzilla-like avatar halfway across the world in Seoul, Korea. The film also stars Legion star Dan Stevens as Tim, Gloria’s ex-boyfriend, and Jason Sudeikis as Gloria’s childhood friend, Oscar. Simon Pegg also makes a cameo in the film. Colossal made its world premiere last September at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival,

The Fate of the Furious – April 14

The Fast and the Furious catapulted Vin Diesel into stardom and now the franchise has reached its eighth installment. Though the storyline my have gotten lost somewhere at five or six, The Fate of the Furious is sure to be full of high-octane action. Big name actors Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham and Charlize Theron also round out the cast while the film has a stellar soundtrack to boot as well.

Free Fire – April 21

A24 offers up another gem for April. Directed by Ben Wheatley, this ’70s-inspired film made its premier late last year during the Toronto International Film Festival. The action-packed Free Fire pits one coterie against another after an arms deal goes horribly wrong. The gangster film stars Academy Award winner Brie Larson, Armie Hammer, Cillian Murphy, Jack Raynor and Sharlto Cople.

The Lost City of Z – April 21

This incredible true story of The Lost City of Z is based on the best selling book by David Grann. The movie centers upon British archaeologist Percy Fawcett’s (played by Charlie Hunnam) notorious journey into the Amazon jungle to find an uncharted civilization. All in all, the ambitious protagonist will stop at nothing to fulfill his quest even if it means abandoning his family as well as his surrendering his moral compass. The film also stars Robert Pattinson, Sienna Miller and Tom Holland.

The Circle – April 28

If you’re a fan of Black Mirror, the forthcoming Tom Hanks film (which also stars Emma Watson) will be sure to please. Adapted from Dave Eggers’ book of the same name, the film revolves around the theme of privacy in the modern digital age and the perils of a life lived with total transparency. How will our decisions and actions determine the future of humanity?

TV

Netflix’s Louis C.K. 2017 Comedy Special – April 4

Available only on Netflix, Louis C.K. 2017 comes on the heels of the 49-year-old’s critically-acclaimed web series Horace & Pete. Filmed in Washington, D.C., this will mark the first of two original standups from Louis and Netflix. Warning: C.K.’s jokes are definitely not for the faint-hearted.

The Get Down: Part Two – April 7

The second installment of the Netflix hit The Get Down continues to follow characters Shaolin Fantastic, Rumi 411, Mylene, and Zeke — as he juggles life and popularity with The Get Down Brother — through the Bronx during the 1970s. Expect nothing but a good time from this hip-hop heavy show.

Mystery Science Theater 3000 – April 14

The cult favorite Mystery Science Theater 3000 was brought back to life thanks to a Kickstarter campaign raising over $5.7 million USD in donations. Originally aired on Comedy Central and The Sci-Fi Channel, the show centered around three smart alecks weighing in on a chosen film’s lackluster acting and nonsensical plot. The new season of MST 3000 will be airing exclusively on Netflix starring Jonah Ray, Patton Oswalt and Felicia Day.

The Leftovers – April 16

HBO‘s acclaimed drama The Leftovers returns for its third and final season. This instant cult TV show centers around a worldwide upheaval in which 140 million people suddenly vanish into the ether. Starring Justin Theroux, the final season will focus on the main characters as viewers try to solve the puzzles that surround them as the aforesaid rapture approaches.

Bill Nye Saves The World – April 21

Enter nostalgia. Another Neflix original series, Bill Nye Saves The World will be chocked full of special guests while the scientist tackles specific topics and concepts dealing in the world of science. This marks Nye’s return to the small screen for the first time since Bill Nye the Science Guy‘s five-season, 100-episode run came to an end in 1998. Expect a lot of science-filled good times.

IllustratorMakoto Shinkai