From Oscar-winning blockbusters to cult favorites and family-friendly animations, Freeview and Freely offer a packed lineup of films this April. Whether you’re in the mood for action, mystery, or a heartwarming tale, here are the best movies to watch this month.
Channel 4
Rocketman (2019)
This acclaimed biopic chronicles Elton John’s transformation from a young, shy piano prodigy named Reginald Dwight to the iconic singer, focusing on his breakthrough years in the 1970s. Featuring Taron Egerton as Elton, Bryce Dallas Howard and Steven Mackintosh as his parents, Jamie Bell as Bernie Taupin and Richard Madden as manager John Reid, the film won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for ‘(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again’.
Fresh (2022)
In this 2022 horror thriller, Daisy Edgar-Jones stars as Noa, a woman disillusioned with modern dating. She meets the charming Steve, played by Sebastian Stan, at a grocery store and decides to take a chance on him. After accepting his invitation to a weekend getaway, Noa discovers that Steve has some unusual appetites. Fresh had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 20, 2022, and has been praised for its unique take on the horror genre.
Submarine (2010)
Richard Ayoade’s directorial debut, Submarine, is a coming-of-age dramedy that follows Oliver Tate, a socially awkward teenager navigating first love and family turmoil in Wales. Played by Craig Roberts, Oliver becomes infatuated with the rebellious Jordana (Yasmin Paige) while also trying to save his parents’ failing marriage. The film is known for its dry humor, unique visual style, and a soundtrack by Arctic Monkeys’ frontman Alex Turner. Upon release, Submarine was praised for its witty script and Ayoade’s distinctive direction, earning a BAFTA nomination for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer.
My Friend Dahmer (2017)
This chilling biographical drama explores the teenage years of Jeffrey Dahmer, one of America’s most infamous serial killers. Ross Lynch stars as a young Dahmer, depicting his struggles with isolation, dark impulses, and a troubled home life before his descent into crime. Based on the graphic novel by John Backderf, a former classmate of Dahmer, the film offers a disturbing yet compelling portrait of a killer in the making. Unlike many true crime films, My Friend Dahmer avoids sensationalism, instead focusing on the psychological aspects of Dahmer’s early life. The film was met with critical acclaim for Lynch’s haunting performance and its unsettling atmosphere.
BBC iPlayer
The Martian (2015)
In The Martian, astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead after a dust storm on Mars and left behind by his crew, but he survives and must use his ingenuity to survive alone on the planet while NASA and his crewmates work to find a way to rescue him. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film boasts a star-studded cast, including Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Jeff Daniels, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sean Bean, Sebastian Stan, Donald Glover, and Benedict Wong. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor, and won two Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actor.
Shrek (2001)
One of the most beloved animated films of all time, Shrek tells the story of a green ogre who must journey to rescue Princess Fiona from a dragon to regain his swamp. Along the way, he encounters iconic characters from fables, including a talking donkey, Puss in Boots, Pinocchio, princesses, and pirates. Shrek won the first-ever Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2002 and was inducted into the National Film Registry in 2020, marking it as the first DreamWorks film and non-Disney animated feature to receive that honor.
Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s directorial debut is a psychological horror that follows Chris Washington, played by Daniel Kaluuya, an African-American man who visits his white girlfriend’s family estate, only to uncover disturbing secrets. The film masterfully blends social commentary with suspense and has been lauded for its thought-provoking narrative. Get Out received numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Red Joan (2018)
Inspired by true events, this 2018 British drama stars Judi Dench as Joan Stanley, a retired physicist accused of supplying classified information to the Soviet government during her youth. The film delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral complexities of espionage. Sophie Cookson portrays the younger Joan in flashbacks, depicting her involvement in wartime intelligence.
Channel 5
Unknown
Liam Neeson stars as Dr. Martin Harris, who awakens from a coma in Berlin to find his wife doesn’t recognize him, another man is impersonating him, and he’s being pursued. He must fight to prove his identity with the help of an unlikely ally. The cast also includes Diane Kruger, January Jones, Aidan Quinn, and Sebastian Koch. Upon release, Unknown grossed a worldwide total of $136.1 million and finished at number one in its first week in theaters.
ITVX
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
This 2002 sports comedy-drama follows Jesminder “Jess” Bhamra, portrayed by Parminder Nagra, a young woman from a traditional Indian family in London who dreams of playing professional football. Despite her parents’ disapproval, she joins a local women’s team and forms a close friendship with teammate Jules, played by Keira Knightley. The film explores themes of cultural identity, family expectations, and the pursuit of one’s passions. Bend It Like Beckham received critical acclaim and became a global box office success.
Transformers (2007)
Directed by Michael Bay, this 2007 sci-fi action film introduces audiences to the epic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons, two factions of alien robots who bring their war to Earth. Shia LaBeouf stars as Sam Witwicky, a teenager who becomes caught in the conflict, with Megan Fox portraying his love interest, Mikaela. Known for its groundbreaking visual effects and explosive action sequences, Transformers was turned into a successful film franchise.
Limitless (2011)
Bradley Cooper stars as Eddie Morra, a struggling writer who discovers a mysterious pill that unlocks his brain’s full potential, leading to unforeseen consequences. This 2011 thriller explores themes of power, intelligence, and addiction, with Robert De Niro co-starring as a powerful businessman intrigued by Eddie’s newfound abilities. Limitless was praised for its fast-paced narrative and engaging concept.
No Time To Die (2021) – Coming on April 6
Daniel Craig’s final adventure as James Bond sees 007 brought out of retirement for one last mission. In No Time To Die, Bond must track down a dangerous villain, Safin (Rami Malek), who possesses a deadly bioweapon. The film also features Lashana Lynch as the new 00 agent, Nomi, and sees the return of fan-favorite characters, including Léa Seydoux’s Madeleine Swann, Ben Whishaw’s Q, and Christoph Waltz as Blofeld. Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, No Time To Die is packed with high-stakes action, emotional depth, and a dramatic conclusion to Craig’s journey as Bond. The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for Billie Eilish’s title track.
Full list of channels & players you can access for free with Freeview and Freely:
- BBC iPlayer
- ITVX
- 4
- 5
- STV Player
- S4C Clic
- WATCH FREE UK (AMC)
- PBS America
- GB News Catch-up
- QVC+
- U (UKTV)