As you've already seen with previous installments of this post, these aren't anything overly technical - and in many cases, we're not able to base our opinions on much more than some trailers - but it's a fun way to preview the titles ahead and give you a brief look into what some of us over here, collectively, think is the best ahead.
There's no way in knowing what these films might hold, and we're not trying to say this grouping of films will necessarily be the best of the month, but these are the titles we're most looking forward to as a group.
Hit the jump for the ranking and a few details on the five films that this site sees as the most anticipated for the month of April!
For those of you looking for a detailed description of how the selections were determined, please reference the rules as outlined in our Greatest Films post. It's pretty basic stuff though - we all choose five films, and points are awarded to each; the five highest vote-getting titles are compiled and ranked. Easy enough, but still effective.
It was really nice to finally start seeing some quality titles emerge. For the first time in a long time, it felt like there were a few decent films left off of this post (in previous months, the bottom half of the list was generally just kind of the best of the crap left over). But as summer approaches, there's much more quality starting to hit theaters. Most of the films below still have some question marks, but overall, it's a solid group that should provide plenty of entertainment!
5. Jurassic Park 3D - 8 Points
April 5 - U.S. Wide Release
We start off this month's list with a 3D re-release, which has become more and more common for older box office juggernauts. While as a group we all have mixed opinions on 3D for the sake of 3D (and post-conversion on older stock, for that matter), this is still one of the most iconic films from our generation's youth. Many of us missed the chance to see it when it originally hit theaters, and if that was the case for you, here's another chance to take in one of Steven Spielberg's most magical films.
4. Pain and Gain - 9 Points
April 26 - U.S. Wide Release
April 19 - Limited Release
April 19 - U.S. Wide Release
April 5 - U.S. Wide Release
April 26 - U.S. Wide Release
Michael Bay's latest film, which harkens back to his earlier Bad Boys ventures, stars Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne Johnson as two weight lifters-turned-incompetent criminals. The film looks like it could be entertaining, and the fact that it's based on true events only adds to the absurdity. The trailers have looked decent, and with a strong supporting cast on board, this could easily end up being one of the more enjoyable films of the month.3. Lords of Salem - 11 Points
April 19 - Limited Release
Rob Zombie is back with his latest film, again displaying his patented gritty visuals in what looks to be a solid entry to his filmography. Most people seem to either love or hate Zombie's work, but if nothing else, his films are generally refreshing compared to some other horror works being released. The story seems fascinating, and a perfect platform for Zombie's interests.2. Oblivion - 15 Points
April 19 - U.S. Wide Release
You just can't discount anything with Tom Cruise. This film looks epic in scale, and we love seeing Cruise in more sci-fi stuff, but there are definitely still questions with this one. But each trailer has looked better than the last, giving slightly more hope as we approach this film's release. This is the perfect type of spring fare, which will hopefully be one of this year's surprises. If not, we'll all be at theaters opening weekend finding out for ourselves.1. Evil Dead - 16 Points
April 5 - U.S. Wide Release
Unfortunately, this film's audience will be more limited due to the excessive violence and gore that is known to be present in the film. But if you're into that sort of thing, it doesn't look like you can go wrong here. While a remake of Sam Raimi's cult horror hit, this production has still felt very fresh and inspired. There are good people involved with this one, and everything points to this being a great horror entry, pushing limits everywhere it can. We understand that not everyone will be into this one, but for most everyone at this site, it's a near must-see.
So those are the films that we as a group see as the most anticipated for the month. As I stated in the intro, take this for what you will. These aren't necessarily going to be the best films of the month - or even pan out to be the most entertaining films - but as of right now, with the entire month ahead of us, these are the titles that we see as having the potential to provide the most quality/entertainment/enjoyment.
Those are our picks though. Any other titles you'd like to see on this list?
Be sure to check back next month for our top choices for May!
Those are our picks though. Any other titles you'd like to see on this list?
Be sure to check back next month for our top choices for May!