I've always had a soft spot for random indie films I stumbled across. I actually found this view the "friend of a friend" method where you watch a film on Amazon and it suggests similar films. I've found quite a few small films this way.
Basically this follows Steve Boyle, the youngest son in a family that owns a popular restaurant founded by their late father. As the youngest, he dreams of one day running the business, but he also has all the foibiles of being the least respected and responsible. He drinks, has a relationship with a waitress, and hangs out with the titular Carlos, a Mexican who speaks no English and helps him in the kitchen.
It's funny in that low key way. Steve is a guy you root for but also realize is his own worst enemy. He dreams of bigger things but is also aimless at the same time. In a lot of ways he's a relatable character who at times you know will make the worst decisions possible.
Enter Victor, the guy who is a little too good for you to like. He travels the world saving kittens and children from mudslides and the Boyles, and Steve's ex girlfriend, absolutely love him, much to Steve's chagrin.
This new rival serves to both focus, and cause Steve to really start making bad decisions.
I know I'm not really projecting how funny this movie actually is, but I find it to be very enjoyable even after several viewings.
This film is like a nice, warm, blanket. While you know it'll never win an Oscar, you can sit back, put it on, and know exactly what you're going to get. A movie that is entertaining, funny, and won't twist your brain like Momento or Primer. Sometimes it's comforting to have a simple story with interesting characters. It also doesn't hurt when Harry Dean Stanton pops up a few times.
So if you want some cinematic comfort food, give this film a try.
