'Cedar Rapids'review: Ed Helms and John C. Reilly stand out in ensemble including Anne Heche

Comedy about a timid insurance agent. WithEd Helms,John C. Reilly. Director:Miguel Arteta(1:26). R: Crude& sexual humor, drug use. At area theaters.

The kind of comedy that gets by more on its good nature than a good sense of humor, Miguel Arteta's"Cedar Rapids"is both easy to like and easily forgotten. Its appeal comes almost entirely from the cast members, who appear genuinely excited to invite us to their party.

That's saying something, since the festivities take place in a generic hotel inIowa, during an insurance convention. Newbie Tim Lippe (Ed Helms) is a naive, God-fearing agent who quickly gets caught up with the group pranksters, includingDean Ziegler(John C. Reilly), a friendly rival who spends his weekend trying to taint Tim's innocence.

Given that"Cedar Rapids"comes from the same uptight-guys-get-loose school as"The Hangover"and"Hot Tub Time Machine,"it should be no surprise that poor Tim finds himself constantly, and literally, caught with his khakis down.

Helms is a scene-stealer with a generous streak and stands out in an ensemble, while making it stronger. Among his able partners-in-crime are a slyly sexyAnne HecheandIsiah Whitlock Jr., whose impeccable comic timing may shock those who know him from"The Wire."

But the movie belongs to Helms and Reilly, ringleaders who barely seem to notice that the script fromPhil Johnstonfavors easy jokes and obvious setups. They, and the others, give this minor movie major heart. While a Midwestern convention might not sound like the most promising escape, take it from Tim: Good times aren't about where you are, but who you're with.

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