Two basically decent middle-aged guys (Christopher Meloni and Dean Norris) own a used-car lot; it does well enough, and they’re happy with that. It’s not a concept you imagine wowing film execs, but it makes for a sweet-natured, if haphazardly plotted, movie, based loosely on director Joel Surnow’s father.

When Meloni’s Al Klein gets a call from his high school grad son (Devon Bostick), asking to come live with him and train as a salesman in lieu of college, Al balks (as does his ex-wife, played by Bridget Moynahan). But he caves, and proceeds to watch his son begin to morph into the kind of sleazy salesman Al’s always tried not to be.

It’s a strange turn of events, and not one we see any clues about up until that point. A further right turn comes as the frosty ex-wife sets her sights on a one-night stand with Al. And Ashley Jensen (“Extras”) pops up in an inexplicable role, which goes nowhere, as an airhead secretary. “Small Time” has its heart in the right place, but its screenplay’s in serious need of a tuneup.