Movie #78- "Cedar Rapids" (2011)

One of the downsides of living in a smallish community is the lack of independent films that hit our theater.  A few years back, a 14-screen multiplex opened in town, promising the opportunity at a wider variety of movies.  Unfortunately, it just meant more screens for the bigger movies with the occasional small film playing ("Safety Not Guaranteed" actually run for a couple weeks here).
I mention this issue because I wanted to see "Cedar Rapids" when it opened, checking the movie listings each Friday, only to be disappointed.  Life took a few unexpected turns that year, and soon, the film was filed to the back of my memory.  While recently looking up another film, I stumbled across the title again.
"Cedar Rapids" really offered few surprises and delivered what I expected.  For me, part of the appeal of this film is also part of it's downfall.  The premise centers around an insurance convention taking place in Cedar Rapids.  Simple idea that many people can relate to.  Most conventions don't have the luxury of occurring in New York or Las Vegas, as most films of this nature would use as a location.  I'm sure a majority of people don't know where Cedar Rapids is located. 
But the location can also be problematic.  A fair portion of the film occurs during the convention and within the confines of the hotel.  When it moves outside its boundaries for a big party scene, it seems out of place.  The ending offers a false sense of vindication for the main character.
However, Ed Helms really has the naive character traits down cold.  He delivers a somewhat funny and occasional sad performance as Tim Lippe (could someone really be that lost in reality?).  John C. Reilly is the hero of the film, as the loose cannon of the crew, which in this case, only requires a little alcohol.  I was hoping for a film that would score an "8", but at least it was close.

Rating: 7/10
Movies I've previously seen: 6
First time viewings: 72