Netflix has lined up an exciting collection of films and documentaries this April, with something for everyone; from heartwarming romances to edge-of-your-seat thrillers and powerful true stories. If you’re wondering what to add to your watchlist, here’s a closer look at some of the month’s most anticipated releases.
Istanbul Encyclopaedia
Release Date: April 17
For those who prefer quieter, more introspective films, Istanbul Encyclopaedia offers a beautiful, coming-of-age story set against the vibrant backdrop of one of the world’s most fascinating cities. The film follows a young student who moves to Istanbul to continue her studies. As she adjusts to life in the sprawling, sometimes overwhelming metropolis, she stays with a family friend who becomes an anchor in her new life. Through her struggles and triumphs, the story explores themes of independence, identity, and the bittersweet experience of growing up. Istanbul itself plays a central role in the narrative, captured in gorgeous, sweeping shots that highlight both the city’s ancient history and its modern vibrancy. Istanbul Encyclopaedia is a thoughtful, emotional film perfect for viewers who enjoy stories about personal growth and cultural discovery.
Good for: Lovers of emotional dramas, coming-of-age stories, and cultural explorations.
Oklahoma City Bombing:
American Terror
Release Date: April 18
True crime documentaries have become a popular genre in recent years, and Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror adds a powerful and important story to Netflix’s collection. This documentary revisits the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, one of the most devastating acts of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. Through real footage, survivor interviews, and expert analysis, the film carefully reconstructs the events leading up to the bombing, the tragic aftermath, and the broader impact it had on American society. Rather than sensationalizing the violence, American Terror takes a thoughtful, respectful approach to a painful chapter in modern history, making it an essential watch for anyone interested in true crime, history, or the study of extremism.
Good for: History buffs, true crime fans, and those seeking a deeper understanding of major historical events.
iHostage
Release Date: April 18
Based on an actual hostage crisis, iHostage delivers gripping drama and intense psychological tension. Set inside an Apple Store in Amsterdam, the story begins when an armed man enters the store and takes several people hostage. As negotiators work carefully to understand his demands and motivations, the police must find a way to defuse the situation without endangering innocent lives. The film explores not just the external crisis, but also the internal struggles of both the hostages and the hostage-taker, creating a layered, emotionally charged experience. Blending real-world drama with the pacing of a high-stakes thriller, iHostage is a compelling reminder of how unpredictable and delicate crisis negotiations can be.
Good for: Fans of true crime, tense dramas, and realistic thrillers.
Bullet Train Explosion
Release Date: April 23
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, Bullet Train Explosion promises to deliver heart-pounding excitement from start to finish. Set on a high-speed train racing across Japan, the plot kicks off when authorities discover that a bomb has been planted onboard. The catch? If the train slows down to below 100 kilometres per hour, the bomb will detonate. What follows is a tense, thrilling race against time. Passengers must stay calm, engineers scramble for solutions, and rescue teams outside the train work furiously to prevent disaster. With expertly choreographed action sequences, stunning visuals of the Japanese countryside flashing past at lightning speed, and a gripping storyline, this movie is a must-watch for fans of the action-thriller genre.
Good for: Viewers who love non-stop action, suspenseful plots, and intense thrillers.
Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey
Release Date: April 21
Nature documentaries often focus on majestic lions or elusive whales, but Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey shines a light on one of the world’s most endangered and least understood creatures; the pangolin. This real-life documentary follows the journey of Kulu, a baby pangolin rescued from poachers. Under the care of a dedicated wildlife rehabilitator, Kulu learns how to survive in the wild again. The film beautifully captures the fragile early days of Kulu’s recovery, showing both the challenges and the small victories that come with teaching a rescued animal to live independently. Alongside Kulu’s personal story, the documentary educates viewers about the importance of pangolins in their ecosystems and why they are critically endangered. Beautiful cinematography and heartfelt storytelling make Kulu’s Journey a moving and eye-opening watch for all ages.
Good for: Animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and viewers looking for inspiring real-life stories.
Heavenly Ever After
Release Date: April 19
Romantic films often explore the idea of love that transcends time, but Heavenly Ever After takes it one step further. The story begins after life has ended, where two former lovers find themselves reunited in heaven. However, there’s an unexpected twist: he appears as a vibrant man in his thirties, while she is in her eighties, reflecting her age at the time of her death. As they meet again in this strange and beautiful afterlife, they must navigate the complex emotions that come with their changed appearances. Can they still find the connection they once had? Or have time and experience altered them too much? With tender performances and a moving script, Heavenly Ever After is a touching film that explores themes of love, memory, and the nature of true connection. It’s a gentle, emotional watch perfect for those who enjoy romantic stories with a thoughtful twist.
Good for: Fans of heartfelt, emotional romances with an imaginative twist.
Final Thoughts
April 2025’s Netflix lineup brings a rich mix of stories from around the world, whether you’re in the mood for a touching romance set in the afterlife, a high-octane action movie, or a deeply moving real-life documentary. With such a wide range of new releases, there’s no shortage of compelling entertainment to dive into this month. What will you be watching first?
