April 2014 Watchlist

Article by Gabe Zia
Okay March is over, time to movie on to April. There's a lot of films coming out this month, a lot of which are indie or underground films.

April 4th

Under the Skin

Scarlet Johansson in Under the Skin

This is yet another festival favourite, this film is really shrouded in mystery. And that's good, I like not knowing about a film before I see it, it allows me to go in it without expectation. All I know is that it looks like a Stanley Kubrick film, and that is in no way a bad thing.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Chris Evans in Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Ever since the Avengers came out, I've been waiting for a really great Marvel film. And this might just be that film. From the trailers, it looks like it's got great action, cool characters, and some cool set-pieces. This film is definitely one I'll be seeing.


April 7th (Calgary Underground Film Festival)

Frank

Michael Fassbender, Maggie Gyllenhaal, & Domhnall Gleeson in Frank

There's a lot of films showing at this years underground film festival, but the one that's really caught my eye is an indie film called Frank, starring Michael Fassbender as you've never seen him before. Yeah, that guy in the mask? That's Michael Fassbender.

March 11th

Joe

Nicolas Cage in Joe

This movie was an interesting choice for me. Usually Nicolas Cage films are corny action flicks, but for the first time in years he's doing a drama. And with a good supporting cast & some really promising early reviews, this is certainly a film to look forward to.

Oculus

Karen Gillan in Oculus

Most modern day horror films are usually cliched and boring films filled with nothing but jump scares. And from the trailer, I initially thought this would be no exception. But, from some early reviews and a strong cast, I think I'll give this movie a shot.

April 18th

Transcendence

Johnny Depp in Transcendence

The thing about this film is that it looks very "Nolan-y". This is to be expected, knowing it's directed by Christopher Nolans cinematographer. This film looks really promising, and I hope it lives up because films like these can crash and burn in so many ways.

April 25th

Only Lovers Left Alive

Tom Hiddleston in Only Lovers Left Alive

Yet another indie film (there's a ton of these in April), this one serves as a homage to both classic punk rock, and vampires in film. I always like it when I see a director trying to cultivate vampire films after the Twilight series completely ruined them.

My favourite film of March 2014: Enemy

Jake Gyllenhaal and... Jake Gyllenhaal in Enemy

Atmospheric, beautifully shot, thought provoking, & brilliantly performed. Enemy is a truly remarkable film. This is one of those really rare movies that only comes out a couple of times every few years, the kind that makes you think about it. The kind you immediately want to discuss with your friends to see what they thought of it.