Screening Room: “Anchorman 2,” “American Hustle,” “Saving Mr. Banks,” “Walking with Dinosaurs”

1) Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (PG-13)
Paramount Pictures

RUSS
Utterly ridiculous, lame-brained…and often funny. It doesn’t have enough good material to cover its 2-hour running time, but it’s a mildly entertaining bit of cinematic chaos.

SHAWN
Actually funnier than the original and way more over the top. No, not every joke works but if you are looking for idiotic fun “Anchorman 2” is a slam dunk. More bags if not for one very awful scene.

RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags

2) American Hustle (R)
Sony Pictures

RUSS
It’s an extremely clever and funny con movie with a great cast. It’s decadent, but it’s also smart and devilishly entertaining.

SHAWN
Messy, incoherent and at times sloppy. More show than substance. The flash of the ’70s clothing and hair styles is brighter than anything else.

RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags

3) Saving Mr. Banks (PG-13)
Walt Disney Pictures

RUSS
The bumpy road to bring “Mary Poppins” to the screen is the focus of this sweet and sentimental crowd-pleaser. Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson are a big reason why this movie works.

SHAWN
Every element is first-rate but you never really care or get pulled in. Maybe it’s the over blandness or non-compelling story.

RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags

4) Inside Llewyn Davis (R)
CBS Films

RUSS
The Coen Brothers’ look at a 60s folk singer is beautifully produced, sharply written and the attention to detail is impeccable. But its also cold and off-putting, a movie to be greatly admired but not necessarily enjoyed.

SHAWN
Beautiful filmmaking. Boring storytelling. Snore. Bore. Except for the music scenes which is a shame.

RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags

5) Walking with Dinosaurs (PG)
20th Century Fox

RUSS
Great visuals and an uninspired script make this animated kids’ flick a mixed bag.

RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: Did Not Screen

Also opening this week: “The Punk Singer” is a documentary about Kathleen Hanna, leader of the band “Bikini Kill.”