"Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" (PG). This animated sequel has the lion (Ben Stiller), zebra (Chris Rock), giraffe (David Schwimmer) and hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith) exploring mainland Africa. Although the plot doesn't do much more than trot out the same characters, some attempts are made to advance the story. Grade: C+ Opens Friday, Nov. 7.

"Soul Men" (R). Not reviewed. Bernie Mac (in his final role) stars with Samuel L. Jackson in this comic drama about two former members of a '70s soul band who reunite for a musical tribute. Opens Friday, Nov. 7.

NOW PLAYING

"Beverly Hills Chihuahua" (PG). The voice of Drew Barrymore stars as the dog, along with such human actors as Jamie Lee Curtis and Piper Perabo. Grade: C TownMall Cinemas, Carrolltown 6 Cinemas

"Body of Lies" (R). The slick professionalism of director Ridley Scott, and the presence of Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe don't fully spark a busy spy story that roams the world and yet doesn't go very deep. Grade: B- Carrolltown 6 Cinemas

"The Haunting of Molly Hartley" (PG-13). The movie's potential is spoiled by plot developments so extreme that you'll be haunted by disappointment. Grade: C TownMall Cinemas

"High School Musical 3: Senior Year" (G). Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens finally approach graduation in a wholesome musical comedy that's as easy to watch as it is predictable. Grade: B- TownMall Cinemas, Carrolltown 6 Cinemas

"Max Payne" (PG-13). Video game origins account for the superficiality of a mediocre action movie in which Mark Wahlberg merely goes through the violent motions. Grade: C- TownMall Cinemas, Carrolltown 6 Cinemas

"Nick & Nora's Infinite Playlist" (PG-13). Two high school kids (Michael Cera and Kat Dennings) embark on a romance while visiting hip Manhattan clubs in a single very long night. Grade: C+ TownMall Cinemas, Carrolltown 6 Cinemas

"Pride and Glory" (R). The story about corruption in the New York police department is formulaic, but there are several fine scenes with Edward Norton, Jon Voight, Colin Farrell and Noah Emmerich. Grade: B- TownMall Cinemas

"Saw V" (R). It's literally torture watching the fifth installment in a sadistic series. Grade: D- TownMall Cinemas, Carrolltown 6 Cinemas

"The Secret Life of Bees" (PG-13). Featuring Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Hudson and Queen Latifah, this story about a girl growing up in racially segregated South Carolina in 1964 is easy to like, but its messages are bluntly delivered. Grade: B- TownMall Cinemas

"Zack and Miri Make a Porno" (R). Writer-director Kevin Smith's mostly unsuccessful comedy features Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks as financially desperate friends who decide to make a pornographic movie. The first half of Smith's movie is marred by so much profanity-laced dialogue that it becomes tiresome; and the second half is marred by such a sentimental turn that it seems forced. Grade: C TownMall Cinemas, Carrolltown 6 Cinemas

All capsule reviews and grades are by Mike Giuliano unless otherwise noted. Bookings change on Friday. For showtimes and to confirm listings, call the phone-in number in Screen Scene.

SCREEN SCENE

Carrolltown 6 Cinemas
6405 West Hemlock Road, Eldersburg
410-795-7890

TownMall Regal Cinemas
400 Center St., Westminster
410-857-1410

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