By Keith Walther | Rose Law Group Reporter
April has been known to reveal early Oscar contenders like last year’s “Sinners,” and there might be one or two this year that could vie for their own statues. At the very least, the month will be well-diversified across various genres like family animation, romantic comedy, action, drama, and of course horror. However, an icon anchors this month’s film lineup and is undoubtedly the most anticipated movie event of the month. Let’s take a look!
April 1st – 3rd
The month comes out swinging with a sequel that is sure to sit atop the box office for at least two to three weeks. “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” is the animated follow-up to the 2023 success featuring the same directors, same writer, and same voices as its predecessor. So, it’s safe to assume this movie will be just as fun as the first, if not more with the introduction of other favorite characters from the video game franchise like Rosalina and Yoshi.
If you’re looking for something more dramatic, then check out the aptly titled “The Drama,” which is ironically more of a romantic comedy. It stars two of the hardest working actors in showbiz, Robert Pattinson and Zendaya, both of whom will have multiple films released throughout this year. It’s also written and directed by Kristoffer Borgli, who helmed the uniquely comedic “Dream Scenario” in 2023. Keep your eye on this one, it could be the surprise hit of the month.
April 10th
Time to dial up the intensity with “Beast,” a fictional sports drama about an old MMA legend forced back into the cage to help his ailing brother. Among all the Australian talent is a Hemsworth brother (the older one) and Oscar winner Russell Crowe. With an inexperienced director behind the helm, it will be best to wait for reviews before committing to this one.
Back to the genre of romantic comedy is a cute looking story of mistaken identity. “You, Me & Tuscany” features Halle Bailey (“The Little Mermaid”) as a woman who wanders into an Italian villa and poses as the owner’s fiancée, only to find an unexpected romance. This could be silly and cheesy or cutely romantic or a combination of both. One thing you can expect it not to be is a serious Oscar contender.
April 17th
Switching gears this week is a monster horror film that looks very interesting. “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy” has the potential of being one of the more frightening films of the year as a reimagining of that classic monster movie. For those unfamiliar with director Lee Cronin, he’s the one who brought the “Evil Dead” franchise back to life with “Evil Dead Rise” in 2023, which was a surprise hit. With 1982’s “Poltergeist” and “Seven” being his inspiration for this film, this could be that terrifying suspense thriller you’ve been waiting for all year.
If you happen to enjoy the “Nobody” films over the past few years, then this one might be right up your alley. “Normal” is an action crime thriller featuring Bob Odenkirk once again fighting back against injustice. This should be a straightforward, action-packed thrill ride sure to be 90 minutes of pure fun.
Next up this week looks to be an odd one from a writer/director who has missed more times than he’s connected. “Mother Mary” showcases Oscar winner Anne Hathaway in the lead role as an iconic pop star who experiences an awkward reunion with her former best friend and costume designer. With director David Lowery’s track record consisting of poor films like “The Green Knight” and “Peter Pan & Wendy,” it may be wise to give this film a wide berth.
April 24th
The most anticipated film of the month finally arrives about the most prolific pop star to ever live. “Michael” is the music biopic of Michael Jackson that features his real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson in the titular role. Whether it will be a puff piece or a realistic insight into his tumultuous life is yet to be seen, but with Antoine Fuqua (“Training Day”) in the director’s chair, it should be entertaining at the very least.
An action comedy will close out the month that looks like a more violent version of “War of the Roses.” “Over Your Dead Body” pits Samara Weaving against Jason Segel as a married couple secretly plotting to kill the other. Don’t be surprised if this winds up being one of the funnier movies of the year.
