Review of Cedar Rapids (2011) by Harry W — 20 Jan 2014

Cedar Rapids had appeal to me because I'm a fan if Ed Helms' work on The Office and in The Hangover, and his expression on the DVD cover was priceless.

Cedar Rapids seems like a more genuinely organic comedy film because you can tell that there isn't really jokes forced into it. All the humour occurs naturally within the development of its simple story. And while it's rather conventional in telling its story, it does the job and it makes Cedar Rapids fell very humane, believable and easy to watch. It's a laid back and chill film, and while it isn't too funny it is easy to watch. And it's scripted very nicely and benefits from Miguel Artera's simple direction to ensure the simplistic style, movement and atmosphere of the film is light and friendly.

Cedar Rapids just feels genuine. It's believable and it's fun, and it even has a sense of sweetness to it which makes it easy to smile about. Really, it's all about one character and how he develops on a comedic journey in Cedar Rapids. And that character is portrayed greatly by Ed Helms, because with all the comedic neuroticism he is known for playing well in his career. We see his character Tim Lippe develop well over the journey and gradually smile more and enjoy himself. He makes Cedar Rapids a feel-good movie, and the rest of the cast do their jobs too.

Anne Heche gives a performance which is good because the character Joan Ostrowski-Foxx is really easily likeable and naturally friendly, enough so that she feels genuine as a person. Plus she has good sex appeal in the pool scene, so she succeeds on every level, but mostly because she gives a good performance.

John C. Reilly uses all of his naturally powerfully hilarious charisma in Cedar Rapids without going overboard and he ensures there is a great comedic mood that is brimming with life and energy. He's the funniest star of the film.

Kurtwood Smith and Alia Shawkat also made strong comedic roles in Cedar Rapids, due in part to their comedic legacies on successful comedy shows.

Stephen Root and Sigourney Weaver also make good presences in Cedar Rapids.

So Cedar Rapids isn't anything too special, but it's laid back, relaxed and nicely funny, benefitting from Ed Helms' charm and John C. Reilly's comedic support.