There were no new movies released in the country last week. In fact, this has been an unusual start to the New Year in local cinemas, with a number of new films either coming weeks after their North American release dates, or not showing up here at all.

Thankfully, there'll be a slew of new releases today at Galleria multiplexes. Also, "Room" -- one of last year's very best movies -- will begin a limited run at The Island House Cinema in New Providence, so there are quite a few options.

In the meantime, here's a review of two recent releases. "Zootopia" is still in local theaters, and is the worldwide box office champ for 2016 so far (though "Deadpool" has the lead in North America). And "10 Cloverfield Lane" has ended its run here, but is a film that should not be missed.

Zootopia (Rated A)
Cast: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba
Genre: Animated Action/Adventure
Dwight's Rating:

This very pleasant surprise is beautifully animated, and unexpectedly addresses some very timely social issues affecting many parts of the world.

In the film, we learn that the city of Zootopia is a mammal metropolis where various animals -- from the largest elephant to the smallest shrew -- live and thrive. When Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin, TV's "Once Upon A Time") becomes the first rabbit to join the police force, she quickly learns how tough it is to enforce the law. Determined to prove herself, Judy jumps at the opportunity to solve a mysterious case. Unfortunately, that means working with Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), a wily fox who makes her job even harder.

As an animated film, "Zootopia" is fine for young children, but the audience that will most likely appreciate it -- or would most need to see it -- would be pre-teens and teenagers. There are not so subtle messages about the dangers of stereotypes and being judgmental and making assumptions. At its heart, "Zootopia" is about tackling racism and sexism.

"Zootopia" has come at a time when there are few family-friendly offerings in theaters. But it's no torture-chamber for adults. While it's definitely not a "Shrek", grownups will find a lot to like and admire about this relatively simple and delightful film.

10 Cloverfield Lane (Rated C)
Cast: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, John Goodman, John Gallagher, Jr.
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Dwight's Rating:

Think of this as a cross between "Psycho", "Misery", and television's "The Walking Dead".

This exciting genre-crosser will be a real treat for a fan of any of these films/TV shows. And if you liked all of them, then you must not miss "10 Cloverfield Lane".

While not exactly a horror, it is definitely a thrilling edge-of-your-seat mystery.

After surviving a car accident, Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) wakes up to find herself in an underground bunker with two men. Howard (John Goodman) tells her that a massive chemical attack has rendered the air un-breathable, and their only hope of survival is to remain inside. Despite the comforts of home, Howard's controlling and menacing nature makes Michelle want to escape. After taking matters into her own hands, the young woman finally discovers the truth about the outside world.

"10 Cloverfield Lane" is a sequel to the 2008 horror film, "Cloverfield". But it's certainly not a prerequisite for the new movie. And perhaps it's best to have never watched the original. They are both very different in style and tone, and the new film is described as only a "spiritual successor".

From within the first few minutes, you're so anxious to learn the truth. Is Howard a crazy man? Was there really "a massive chemical attack"?

The pacing is amazing, wringing out every drop of uncertainty and tension. It's aided by the top-notch cast -- John Goodman is astounding, and there are great performances from Winstead and John Gallagher, Jr.

It's all a great heart-pounder, and great fun!

By Dwight Strachan

o Dwight Strachan is the host/producer of " Morning Blend" on Guardian Radio. He is a television producer and writer, and an avid TV history and film buff. Email dwight@nasguard.com and follow him on twitter @morningblend969.

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