Cinematic Chronicles' New Film Recap: April 2026

Over the past 30 days, I saw 10 films in theatre using my Regal Unlimited subscription. 

Here's my assessment of this latest batch of cinematic offerings.

Warning: there are spoilers ahead.

10. Mother Mary

Anne Hathaway: pop diva or demon exorcist?

The question you might ask is why this cult film about a fictional pop star was released alongside a film about perhaps the greatest pop star in history. Truthfully, I am yet to see Michael in theatres, but can confirm Mother Mary is lacking in substance. The story is told in a series of flashbacks. Mother Mary reunites with former stylist Sam (Michaela Coel) and the audience slowly uncovers missteps in both her career and personal relationships. Two hours later, I remained uninterested, as did the person snoring in the row behind me.

9. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Pure chaos. Still lacking substance. 

Admittedly, I'm not well-versed on the Super Mario universe, but I watched the 2023 incarnation first in hopes of gaining a better understanding here. The initial film was witty, comedic, and served the fanbase without alienating those who weren't as familiar with the source material. I'm not quite sure where the sequel went wrong, but despite brilliant animation, further redeeming qualities were few and far between, making it one of the more disappointing films in recent memory. Hoppers did it much better. Still love Jack Black though.

8. Beast

Angry Australians? No need to Go Fish.

When Apollo Creed is killed in the ring, Rocky Balboa must-- oops, wrong film. Quite honestly, Beast lands somewhere at the intersection of Rocky IV and Rocky V, providing an unmistakable sense of déjà vu. It's the feel-good sports story you've seen countless times before, featuring a redemption arc where a retired fighter returns to the ring to avenge his late brother. Nothing about this film feels like a misstep, but it's equally unlikely to leave a lasting impression.  

7. Faces of Death

Surprisingly intriguing, yet incredibly predictable.

Oftentimes, these indie film releases are of the "a dime a dozen" variety, and while a revamped Faces of Death does little to reinvent the wheel, entertainment value is still quite high here. The first rule of content creation? Give the people what they want. Dacre Montgomery undoubtedly steals the show with his haunting performance as Arthur Spevak, a serial killer who finally meets his match in protagonist Margot Romero (portrayed by Barbie Ferreira).

6. Normal

What the --?

If you're looking for Bob Odenkirk of the Nobody franchise, stay tuned a moment longer, as temporary Sheriff Ulysses Richardson will soon discover this small Minnesota town is anything but Normal. You may have to temporarily suspend your disbelief once the Yakuza become involved, or perhaps when Henry Winkler explodes, but if you're looking for unnecessary violence and a dark comedy with unexpected heart, this one should be worth 91 minutes of your time.

5. You, Me & Tuscany

Halle Bailey's Italian love triangle.

Let's be honest: there are plenty of violent films on this list. You, Me & Tuscany provides a familiar, comforting space outside of that realm. The subject matter is a bit lighter than that of current "rom-com" competition, Reminders of Him. Bailey's chemistry with co-star Regé-Jean Page is undeniable, yet the comedic aspects here are equally as gratifying. Who doesn't love Francesca's fling with a plumber named Luigi? As Stella Pecollo declares, "Having a sidepiece is the key to a healthy marriage."

4. Lee Cronin's The Mummy

Don't worry, Grandma. It's fun to be dead.

Truthfully, I can't comprehend the overwhelmingly negative reviews here. In an attempt to outdo Undertone, this film genuinely made my skin crawl. While pacing might be an issue early on, its second hour is filled with unceasingly disturbing content. Charlie's demon-possessed mother-in-law asking if he'd like to feast on her serves as the tipping point for me. Lee Cronin's The Mummy is excessive, revolting, incredible, disturbing, and I'm perfectly happy never watching this again. Well done.

3. Hokum

Holy. Jump. Scares.

Those who are slightly masochistic may enjoy sitting in the back of a dark theatre alone, awaiting Regal's 9:50 PM "Choose Your Fate" Mystery Movie (Nightmares Edition). In Hokum, Adam Scott wanders far from Pawnee, Indiana and finds himself in the haunted honeymoon suite of an Irish hotel. If Lee Cronin's The Mummy is over-the-top in its gory execution, this film takes a more subtle, understated approach. Ever been curious about the product of 107 x 60? The answer is 6,420 seconds. Absolutely terrifying. Again, well done.

2. The Drama

Robert Pattinson. Zendaya. And a bombshell revelation.

This film deserves love for being one of the more unique pieces of art we've seen on the big screen in many months. The subject matter is heavy, uncomfortable, and truly thought-provoking. What would you do if you learned that your fiancée once planned to slaughter a number of innocent people, and only didn't follow through because someone else got there first? Safe to say that kind of information might throw a wrench in one's wedding plans. Got it, shooting grandparents TBD.

1. Over Your Dead Body

This pick might be controversial. Allow me to explain.

An English-language remake of the 2021 Norwegian film The Trip, Jorma Taccone's Over Your Dead Body is a thrilling comedic ride that I never saw coming. Throw in Jason Segel of How I Met Your Mother fame, Samara Weaving of the Ready or Not franchise, a packed theatre howling with laughter every other minute, and you have created an unconventional formula for perhaps the most fun I've had in a theatre to date. If films are meant to entertain, I was thoroughly intrigued by every scene -- every twist and turn of the rollercoaster. Gold medal.

What were your thoughts on April's releases? Feel free to leave a note in the comments below, let's discuss :)