Tidy Tim's is a heartwarming drama film that revolves around the lives of a father and son who try to keep their used car dealership afloat in Southern California. The old man, Tim, played by veteran actor Gene Hackman, is struggling to make ends meet in an era where modern big-box car dealerships have taken over the market. His son, Jack, played by up-and-coming actor Emile Hirsch, helps him in every way he can despite his desire to pursue a career in a different field.
The movie begins with Tim and Jack struggling with their business, barely making a sale, and facing constant harassment from their landlord, who wants to evict them from the property. The situation becomes more complicated when Tim suddenly falls ill and is admitted to the hospital, leaving Jack to run the business alone and care for his father's medical expenses.
As Jack tries to keep the business afloat, he realizes that he has a lot to learn from his father's old-school sales tactics, and together, they come up with innovative ways to bring customers to their lot. They also develop a bond that had been missing due to Tim's preoccupation with the business, and Jack learns more about his father's past struggles and achievements.
Despite their efforts, the Big Boss, a local competitor played by John C. Reilly, offers to buy Tim's lot, leaving Jack to decide whether to sell and move on or fight for their legacy and keep the business running.
Tidy Tim's is a nostalgic, heartfelt story about a father-son relationship and their struggles to keep a piece of Americana alive. It balances comedy, drama, and inspiration, leaving the viewers feeling uplifted and satisfied.