Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Jeff Garlin | ... | James Aaron | |
Dan Castellaneta | ... | Dick | |
Mina Kolb | ... | Mrs. Aaron | |
Paul Mazursky | ... | Charlie Perlman | |
Rose Abdoo | ... | Car Dealership Receptionist | |
Tim Kazurinsky | ... | Bill Bjango | |
Jessy Schram | ... | Fake Daughter | |
Rebecca Sage Allen | ... | Andrea Hope (as Rebecca Allen) | |
Henriette Mantel | ... | Myra | |
David Pasquesi | ... | Luca Giancarlo | |
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Kate Merrill | ... | French Woman |
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Cita Orendain | ... | Philippino Woman |
Joey Slotnick | ... | Larry | |
Patti Vasquez | ... | Hot Dog Lady | |
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Josh Rosenblatt | ... | Poncho Boy |
Life has its downs for James, living with his mom in Chicago at 39, an aging performer at Second City, eating and weighing too much. A woman he's been dating drops him, as does his agent, her brother. James turns down roles in local TV, roles that make him sad. Someone's remaking his favorite movie, "Marty," a role he'd love, but he doesn't even get an audition. He has a minor meltdown when talking at a grade school career day. Things look up when he meets the quirky Beth at an ice cream shop. Can James make a career for himself, move out from mom's, and find someone to eat cheese with? Or is he destined to watch Jackie Gleason and be Marty for the rest of his life? Written by <jhailey@hotmail.com>
Garlin did a great job. Nice concept well executed, and tightly produced. Came across as a very sincere story. As a fan of "Curb Your Enthusiasm", where Jeff was pretty much the straight guy role, I was delighted with how much depth he brought to this role in a simple yet effective portrayal.
Much of the humor was understated and subtle and drew on poignancy, which I really liked, rather than being slapstick or over-explained. And there were some nice little surprises and twists. The convenience store vignettes were a delight.
When I say it is a wonderful "small" film, I don't mean budget or quality. It is simple, intimate and hand-crafted. It tells a highly believable everyday story. Relax and go see it. Let it wash over you, and you will feel good for having done so.