Top 10 Releases Coming to/Leaving Netflix in April 2018

Well over 35 years after its release, this sports comedy still gets laughs, as is considered to be a crude classic. With the legendary Harold Ramis at the helm, and starring Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, Bill Murray, and a motley crew of recognizable faces from the ‘80s, it’s the sort of comedy film that they just don’t make anymore. And yet, for many younger generations, it remains on the bucket list of films you’ve been meaning to see but never got around to. Well... here’s an excuse to finally scratch it off that list! With the title leaving Netflix imminently, why not watch it now while it’s still just one click away?

There are some talk show hosts who just can’t seem to retire. Far from being past his prime however, with this new Netflix series, David Letterman proves that he can still hold our attention. The series started strong and reaffirmed its title in its inaugural episode by having Letterman chat with Barack Obama. Since then, it has delivered one great interview after another - always with a big, influential figure. On April 6th, we’ll have the distinct pleasure of seeing Letterman chat with one of the most powerful people in the entertainment industry - Jay-Z.

Tom Hanks has been called Hollywood’s historian. Whether acting or producing, he’s played a role in bringing many important moments from American history to life on the big screen. Even amidst his impressive filmography, “Apollo 13” stands out. The film explores the ill-fated titular lunar mission and the unbelievable story of how these astronauts got themselves home against astronomical odds. With a stellar cast that includes Hanks, Bill Paxton and Ed Harris, and Ron Howard in the director’s chair… it’s a classic Hollywood drama. So whether it’ll be your first viewing or a repeat, why not take a trip into outer space with Tom Hanks and co. while the film is still available?

This actor, comedian, director and producer might have made a name for himself with his unique brand of humor, but he also knows to use comedy to overcome serious issues. Champions in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, Rogen and his spouse, Lauren Miller, founded “Hilarity for Charity” in 2012, which focuses on raising awareness and “accelerating progress in Alzheimer’s care, research, and support.” In March of 2018, Rogen filmed this star-studded comedy special, which boasts the likes of John Mulaney, Sacha Baron Cohen, and James Corden, to raise funds for this worthy cause. Thanks to a distribution deal with Netflix, we all get to be involved in Seth Rogen's’ Hilarity for Charity!

Do you like your cartoon characters cute and cuddly, or violent and bloodthirsty? With Happy Tree Friends, there’s no need to pick because you get a healthy dose of both! A flash cartoon web series that launched in the late 90s, Happy Tree Friends quickly developed a dedicated following with its odd juxtaposition of adorable, colorful woodland creatures and over-the-top, hyper-graphic cartoon violence. Though the series continues to find new fans to this day, those who’ve enjoyed having a season worth of these little terrors available on Netflix will soon have to look elsewhere to get their fix. For those of you who’ve never seen it, you’ve got until April 15th!

Say hello to Netflix’s little friend. That’s right, as of April 1st, you can get acquainted (or re-acquainted) with Al Pacino’s infamous Tony Montana. Hard as it is to believe in hindsight, this Brian De Palma film was actually met with negative reviews when it was released in 1983. In perhaps one of the biggest disconnects between critics and cinemagoers, Scarface overcame the professional naysayers to become a cultural icon - a film (and figure) that is frequently referenced, cited, quoted and imitated. Nowadays, it is considered one of the greatest and most influential gangster movies ever put to film. Suffice it to say, this is a welcome addition to the Netflix catalogue.

It’s too bad… with a drug lord like Mr. Montana moving in, Netflix could’ve used a hero. They’ll have to look elsewhere for protection as of April 1st however, because the Caped Crusader is flying the coop. Subscribers are unlikely to shed any tears over the departure of “Batman & Robin” or “Batman Forever”, but we would’ve preferred to hold on to the two Michael Keaton led films. For many fans, the importance and influence of Tim Burton’s batflicks can’t be overstated. From Jack Nicholson’s inspired take on the Joker, to Michelle Pfeiffer’s unforgettable Catwoman, these films have made their own significant contributions to Bat-lore.

Though we greet this Netflix Original spin-off series with open arms and hungry eyes… fair warning: this show is not for anyone who’s watching their figure, unless you’re also blessed with incredible self control. In the core series, we met one truly incredible, game-changing chef after another. In this stand-alone spin-off, we get up close and personal with some of the greatest living pastry chefs, and you better believe that their creations are going to make your mouth water and your tummy grumble. Of course, in keeping with the Chef’s Table approach, this is more than food porn - you’ll also learn a lot about the pastries and the people who make them.

It’s not every day that one of the greatest films ever made leaves Netflix! But sadly… one of these tragic occasions have arrived. For Netflix subscribers, it’s time to say goodbye to Andy and Red, and some of the more unsavory staff members of Shawshank Penitentiary… and what better way to send them off after their stint on the streaming service than with one last quality viewing? Directed by the talented Frank Darabont and adapted from Stephen King’s novella “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption”, this film is a masterpiece of storytelling. No matter how many times you’ve seen it, with its challenging subject matter and outstanding performances, the movie never fails to move you.

Reboots tend to be real hit or miss, and if we’re being honest, the hits are pretty rare. In its own time, “Lost in Space” was a moderate success, both with critics and home viewers. Nonetheless, it left a lasting impression on viewers and sci-fi fans alike. The late ‘90s remake was fairly mediocre and forgettable film, but this time around, it looks as if the showrunners have really managed to strike a balance between modern sci-fi sensibilities and nostalgic reverence for the source material. Only time will tell if this show takes flight, but based on the trailer, it certainly looks like a promising update of Irwin Allen’s influential series…