Best Documentaries April 2022: Drop to A Minecraft Movie (11 Films to Watch This April)
Best documentaries April 2022 — our in-depth guide explores April’s most anticipated films, from big-screen thrillers to indie dramas and family blockbusters, alongside documentary highlights worth your time. Estimated reading time: 10 minutes.
April has always been an exciting month in the cinematic calendar. It sits between award-season prestige releases and the summer blockbuster rush, giving audiences a balanced mix of thoughtful dramas, high-energy action, and inventive documentaries. In April 2022, the release schedule was especially rich. Critics highlighted not only major films but also documentaries tackling pressing issues such as technology, identity, and society. That is why searches for the best documentaries April 2022 remain popular: audiences are still looking for timeless titles worth revisiting. This blog combines those essential documentaries with fictional releases, so you can discover an all-around entertainment guide.
- This April’s lineup blends narrative films and must-watch documentaries into a varied cultural experience.
- Highlights include psychological thrillers, experimental dramas, family adventures, and educational documentaries.
- Releases span across traditional theaters, hybrid premieres, and popular streaming services.
- The following list will help you choose wisely, whether you’re into gripping reality-based stories or blockbuster escapism.
- The Thrillers & Dramas
- Family Adventures & Blockbusters
- Romance, Intrigue, and Indie Gems
- Where to Watch: Streaming & Theater Guide
- Watch TV Without Cable
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Thrillers & Dramas
Drop
“Drop” is a claustrophobic thriller that proves small settings can deliver big tension. The story unfolds over a single evening when two couples gather for dinner. What begins as polite conversation gradually turns into a psychological battlefield, exposing betrayals, hidden motives, and secrets that change relationships forever. Its real-time narrative style intensifies the stakes, reminding audiences of award-winning stage plays adapted for film. Fans of true-crime series or the best documentaries April 2022 that dive into human psychology will feel a similar sense of unease and curiosity.
The Shrouds
David Cronenberg, known for redefining the body-horror genre, returns with “The Shrouds.” The film revolves around a grieving entrepreneur who develops technology to connect with the dead. This sci-fi drama doesn’t shy away from existential questions: how much of our mourning can be mediated by machines? Just like the best documentaries April 2022 that analyzed how technology shapes relationships, this movie straddles the line between grief and innovation, leaving viewers unsettled but fascinated. Early critics praised its layered symbolism and bold direction, making it a standout release of the month.
Sinners
In “Sinners,” Ryan Coogler joins forces again with Michael B. Jordan. Set against a backdrop of gothic folklore, the story follows a town haunted by its past. The film combines horror elements with cultural commentary, exploring how collective guilt can manifest in terrifying ways. Horror fans will appreciate its artistry, while those drawn to moral questions will find echoes of the best documentaries April 2022 that interrogated cultural myths. Jordan’s performance in particular shows his versatility, moving seamlessly from blockbuster hero to chilling, conflicted protagonist.
War Machine
Co-directed by a real veteran, “War Machine” brings authenticity to the war-drama genre. Unlike typical Hollywood depictions, it captures the monotony, fear, and occasional absurdity of war. Critics highlighted its balance between action and quiet moments, illustrating the human cost of conflict. The movie feels almost documentary-like, paralleling April 2022’s war-related documentaries that aimed to present raw, truthful portrayals of soldiers’ lives. Viewers looking for grit and honesty will appreciate its depth.
Family Adventures & Blockbusters
The Legend of Ochi
This imaginative family film blends fairy-tale wonder with modern storytelling. It follows a young girl who befriends a mystical forest creature, embarking on a journey of courage and trust. Unlike many effects-heavy films, “The Legend of Ochi” uses handcrafted puppetry and practical effects. The result is visually magical, reminiscent of documentary filmmaking that values authenticity. For families who watched the best documentaries April 2022 about nature and wildlife, this movie feels like an imaginative extension of that awe and respect for the natural world.
A Minecraft Movie
One of the most anticipated releases, “A Minecraft Movie,” brings the sandbox video game to the silver screen. Starring Jack Black, it celebrates creativity, resilience, and collaboration. Children and adults alike will connect with its message that building, experimenting, and failing are part of every great adventure. Just as gaming documentaries in April 2022 spotlighted online communities and digital expression, this movie magnifies those themes in narrative form. Its humor and action-packed sequences are designed for wide appeal, cementing it as one of the month’s family favorites.
Romance, Intrigue, and Indie Gems
On Swift Horses
Daisy Edgar-Jones anchors this period drama with a nuanced performance. Set in 1950s America, the film tracks a young woman entering California’s horse-racing scene while navigating complex relationships. Its sweeping cinematography and layered themes of love and independence resonate with audiences who enjoy intimate stories. Much like the best documentaries April 2022 that focused on personal triumphs and struggles, “On Swift Horses” reminds us that personal journeys can be as thrilling as global narratives.
G20
Political thrillers rarely feel this timely. Viola Davis plays the U.S. President facing an unprecedented hostage crisis at a G20 summit. The movie mixes action with political intrigue, giving viewers a tense exploration of leadership in crisis. Similar to the politically charged documentaries released in April 2022, “G20” reflects real-world anxieties about global cooperation and conflict. Davis’s commanding performance ensures that this film is not just explosive entertainment but also thoughtful commentary.
Sacramento
“Sacramento” is an indie comedy about friendship and midlife reflection. Michael Cera plays a man confronting his past during an unplanned road trip with an old friend. Full of witty banter, awkward silences, and heartfelt realizations, it’s a film that feels small but emotionally expansive. Like some of the best documentaries April 2022 that captured everyday life’s humor and struggles, “Sacramento” reminds us that even ordinary lives can tell extraordinary stories when presented with honesty and heart.
The Wedding Banquet
Director Andrew Ahn revives Ang Lee’s classic with new cultural layers. This version addresses themes of family obligation and queer identity, while also being accessible, heartfelt, and comedic. Bowen Yang and Lily Gladstone shine in their roles, adding depth and modernity to the narrative. Cultural documentaries from April 2022 dealt with similar issues of family, tradition, and modernity, making this film feel especially timely and important.
Where to Watch: Your Streaming and Theater Guide
Finding the right platform can be as challenging as choosing what to watch. Some April releases hit theaters exclusively for several weeks, while others opted for hybrid releases. Documentaries often arrived directly on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Prime Video. If you’re still searching for the best documentaries April 2022, check streaming libraries’ “new releases” sections. For film lovers ready to cut the cord, modern streaming solutions offer affordable alternatives. Industry debates on streaming delays continue — see one discussion here.
| Film Title | Genre | Primary Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Drop | Thriller | Theatrical / VOD |
| The Shrouds | Sci-Fi Drama | Theatrical |
| Sinners | Gothic Horror | Theatrical |
| War Machine | War Drama | Theatrical / Streaming |
| The Legend of Ochi | Family Adventure | Theatrical |
| A Minecraft Movie | Family Adventure | Theatrical |
| On Swift Horses | Romance / Drama | Theatrical / Streaming |
| G20 | Political Thriller | Theatrical |
| Sacramento | Indie Comedy | Streaming |
| The Wedding Banquet | Dramedy | Theatrical / Streaming |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where can I find the best documentaries on Netflix for April 2022?
Netflix curates its documentary library monthly. In April 2022, several impactful titles dropped, covering environmental issues, digital culture, and human rights. To rediscover them, navigate to “Documentaries → New This Month.” These remain some of the best documentaries April 2022, valued for their relevance and lasting insight.
Are all these films available to stream from home?
Not all. Major blockbusters retain exclusive theatrical windows, but indie and documentary films often stream sooner. April 2022 demonstrated this clearly: smaller productions premiered directly on digital platforms, while tentpoles delayed streaming until later. Always check both local cinemas and subscription services for updates.
How did you curate this list of the best films for April?
Our selection balances critical acclaim, audience anticipation, and thematic diversity. We studied critic roundups, festival lineups, and early viewer ratings. Much like the best documentaries April 2022, which blended global issues with personal stories, this list mixes mainstream hits with indie gems. The goal is to provide a comprehensive cultural snapshot of April’s viewing options.
Is there a good film for families with young children this April?
Yes. Family highlights include “The Legend of Ochi” for its fairy-tale wonder and “A Minecraft Movie” for its game-inspired creativity. Documentaries suitable for families also released in April 2022, covering wildlife, art, and science in accessible ways. For households seeking both entertainment and education, combining these films with the best documentaries April 2022 ensures variety and balance.
To conclude, April’s offerings — both fiction and non-fiction — provided some of the year’s strongest content. Whether you gravitate toward thrillers, heartfelt dramas, playful family adventures, or socially conscious documentaries, there is something for everyone. This roundup, enriched with nods to the best documentaries April 2022, gives a clear guide to maximize your viewing. For assistance accessing all your options across platforms, contact our team. Enjoy a month filled with unforgettable storytelling.
About Annie Leibovitz
Content creator and writer passionate about sharing knowledge and insights.
