Review of Cedar Rapids (2011) by Ryan M — 27 May 2014

Cedar Rapids is an excellent example of character-driven comedy. Anchored by Ed Helms' best big-screen performance to date, this seemingly overlooked comedy exposes the seedy underbelly of Iowa's biggest annual insurance convention.

Thanks to a standout performance from Reilly, Helms' naive, lovable Tim Lippe learns that debauchery abounds when insurance folk get together. The fish-out-of-water story is a staple comedy convention, but performances this good surrounded by a smart script and slick direction elevate Cedar Rapids above most of the other Hollywood comedies released during the first half of 2011.