The 2019 film 'Anna' stars Sasha Luss as the titular character Anna Poliatova.
Another week on Netflix
So what new movies should you not miss? Let’s dig in. Below, you’ll find my ten picks for the absolute best films freshly available on Netflix this month. Then at the bottom of the article, you’ll find a full list of every single new movie that’s been added in April. I guarantee you’ll find your next movie night pick in this bunch—and perhaps a new favorite you’ll return to time and time again.
Meet Anna Poliatova, a striking beauty who secretly operates as a deadly assassin, who skillfully balances the perilous world of modeling in the self-titled Anna with high-stakes espionage. As the plot unfolds, our complicated hero navigates through a web of government operatives and international intrigue, revealing layers of deception and her quest for freedom. The direction from Luc Besson, who gave us classics like Léon: The Professional and The Fifth Element, effortlessly weaves together action-packed sequences with a deep dive into Anna’s internal struggle. This underrated spy flick features the fantastic Sasha Luss in the lead role, alongside Helen Mirren, Luke Evans and recent Academy Award winner Cillian Murphy.
From the director of Your Name, one of the most successful anime films of all time, Suzume tells the story of a young girl who embarks on a quest across Japan to seal mysterious portals that threaten natural calamities. Her journey begins when she encounters a young man connected to her past, who reveals the supernatural phenomena linked to their shared history. As they close each portal, the narrative delves into themes of healing and resilience, drawing on the beauty and spirit of various Japanese landscapes. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, this animated film combines a deeply rich story and captivating characters with as-expected stunning visuals, exploring the impact of past trauma and the journey toward closure.
For a great explanation of Suzume, check out this thorough breakdown.
The year 2007 was one of the best ever for movies, featuring classics like There Will Be Blood and No Country for Old Men. But we cannot forget the comedies, which included Superbad and Knocked Up. And the latter film—which centers on the repercussions of a one-night stand between Ben, a laid-back slacker, and Alison, a rising journalist—just arrived on Netflix. After their frivolous and brief encounter results in an unexpected and unwanted pregnancy, the pair must navigate the challenges of potential parenthood and drastically different lifestyles. Directed by Judd Apatow, this comedy explores themes of responsibility, family and personal growth, featuring Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl in career-defining roles that mesh perfectly together.
Many films that were exclusive to the Max streaming service have found their way onto Netflix lately, and the latest addition is the thrilling mystery film The Little Things. This noirish throwback from director John Lee Hancock follows Joe Deacon, a burnt-out deputy sheriff from Kern County, who ends up embroiled in the hunt for a serial killer terrorizing Los Angeles. Teaming up with Sergeant Jim Baxter, the official assigned to the case, the pair's investigation uncovers unsettling secrets about the killer and themselves. As they delve deeper, the lines between right and wrong blur in their quest for justice. The film, which delves into the darker side of obsession and the costs of uncovering the truth, features a trio of Oscar winners in the three lead roles: Denzel Washington, Rami Malek and Jared Leto.
Every couple years, you can expect a film that centers on someone’s relationship with their dog. The results aren’t always great, but people like Channing Tatum, Aaron Eckhart and—in this case—Kate Mara have given us quality clicks. Megan Leavey, directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, is based on the true story of a young Marine corporal whose unique discipline and bond with her military combat dog saved many lives during their deployment in Iraq. After a disciplinary hearing leaves her with a K9 unit assignment, Megan (played by Mara) forms an unbreakable bond with an aggressive dog named Rex. When both are injured in the line of duty, Megan battles through physical and emotional challenges to adopt Rex post-service.
Renny Harlin doesn’t always make great action films, but when he does—as was the case with Cliffhanger, The Long Kiss Goodnight and Die Hard 2—the results include some of the most entertaining minutes you’ll spend in front of the television. Harlin’s latest feature, The Bricklayer, features Aaron Eckhart as a retired CIA operative drawn back into action after a rogue assassin makes the agency look culpable for the deaths of several journalists. Tasked with clearing the CIA's name, he must navigate a web of international conspiracy and confront his own troubled past. Harlin’s film balances action with a touch of intrigue, offering a lively if somewhat predictable espionage thriller. With Nina Dobrev and Tim Blake Nelson supporting, the story weaves through various global tensions and personal problems, providing a fun viewing experience despite familiar genre elements.
Pedro Almodóvar has given us so many classics over the years, from Volver to The Skin I Live In to All About My Mother. And his latest release, which runs just over an hour long, is a welcome addition to that lineup that features two incredible performances. Strange Way of Life depicts the reunion of two old friends, Silva, a rancher, and Sheriff Jake, in the desert town of Bitter Creek. Silva rides across the desert to meet Jake, recalling their past as hired gunmen. Although the visit starts as a nostalgic remembrance of their youth, it soon becomes clear that Jake has ulterior (aka romantic) motives. The film delves into the complexities of their relationship, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal and the unresolved tensions of their shared past. Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal deliver strong performances in this brief yet compelling addition to Almodóvar’s filmography.
Journalist films aren’t as sexy as they used to be, but it looks like Netflix is trying to change that with its latest British-themed endeavor. Scoop dives into the high-stakes world of broadcast journalism as it recounts the events leading up to Prince Andrew’s infamous 2019 interview with BBC Newsnight. The film focuses on Sam McAlister, played by Billie Piper, the tenacious journalist who secures the explosive interview. Directed by Philip Martin, the sotry captures the intense preparations, behind-the-scenes negotiations and the climactic broadcast that shook the British monarchy. With Gillian Anderson portraying journalist Emily Maitlis and a strong supporting cast, Scoop provides a detailed look at the challenges and triumphs of a team determined to uncover the truth amid public and private pressures.
If there’s one thing you can count on from M. Night Shyamalan, it’s a thrilling, unpredictable time at the movies. His latest output has been stellar, which includes Knock at the Cabin, Old and the widely appreciated Split. This thriller that verges on the edge of superhero genre features James McAvoy as Kevin Wendell Crumb, a man with 23 distinct personalities, who kidnaps three teenage girls (one of them is played by the star of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
The last pick on my list is a documentary that I’m guessing a lot of people haven’t seen. Hans Zimmer: Hollywood Rebel is a great, informational, moving flick that explores the innovative career of Hans Zimmer, one of the most influential film composers of our time. The film highlights his revolutionary approach to music and sound, moving away from traditional orchestral compositions to integrate electronic music and unique sound palettes. Through interviews with collaborators and behind-the-scenes footage, viewers gain insights into Zimmer's creative process and the impact of his work on film music. Directed by Matt Schrader, the documentary showcases Zimmer's role in evolving the cinematic experience through score.
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