Sometimes I see a movie that I really enjoy, and then I have to stop and wonder what "normal" people would think about it? Here is one such film. Relentlessly observant, sardonically hilarious, and ultimately kind of tragic, this movie demonstrates that irony sometimes reveals the truth better than sincerity.

The plot of "Dark Horse" involves a childish thirty-something toy- collector who lives with his family and works for his father's company. He finds love -- or something which is close enough for him -- in a quiet, depressed, over-medicated, sullen woman he meets at a friend's wedding. Full of unrealistic notions and childish bravado, he can't help but propose to her on their first date. Unexpectedly, she accepts -- not, as is later revealed, because she loves him -- but rather, because she kind of hates herself, and derives some kind of masochistic pleasure out of the idea of living with this man and having his children!

Yes, this is extremely dark territory, but it's rich in ironic humor and the sting of truth. In fact, I'm not sure which is the richer moment -- her confession, or his unbelievably clueless reaction to it.

In all, "Dark Horse" is a very good film that many people simply will not enjoy. If you've seen any of the other works of Todd Solondz ("Welcome to the Dollhouse," "Storytelling"), you will understand why.

Solondz's films are ironically funny, quietly tragic examinations of people who don't quite understand themselves or the world around them. His characters often find themselves adrift in life, lost on the road to happiness, looking for whatever promise or hope they might find -- often to sadly comical effect. His films might make you laugh, make you squirm uncomfortably, give you the chills that come with seeing something truthful revealed, or all three at once. His films are ironic exaggerations of the world around us -- holding up an unflattering funhouse mirror to the faults and vanities that we all live with and try to hide or deny.

"Dark Horse" certainly isn't territory for those looking for a quick escapist flick, but for those looking for something richer, something darker, something ironic and funny but also truthful -- well, this film hits that spot quite well.

There is nothing like getting two dysfunctional people together to create a successful quirky indie. What I liked about this film more than many of the others in this genre such as "Jack Goes Boating" or "Greenberg" is that I felt comfortable laughing at the plight of the main characters.

Abe (Jordan Gelber) works for his dad and lives at home with his parents (Mia Farrow/ Christopher Walken). He still collects toys and hasn't reached his maturity potential. He lives in the shadow of his successful brother (Justin Bartha). At a wedding, Abe meets Miranda (Selma Blair) a shy, overly medicated woman once married to Mahmoud (Aasif Mandvi). Abe is supported by his secretary (Donna Murphy) who becomes his imaginary conscience.

The setting takes place somewhere in New Jersey between Eagles and Giants country. The title "Dark Horse" is a reference to Abe. His dad likes dark horses. i.e. like the old days when the Giants would lose, but cover the point spread. Abe proposes to Miranda on their second meeting, which she ponders over in her medicated state which is apt for the tone of the film:

Miranda: "I want to want you." Abe: "That's enough for me."

I liked the toy details and shirt selection of Abe. Indie movies pay attention to background details. Although I would have to ask Todd Solondz (writer, director) what real toy collector would remove the Gimli Toybiz figurine from its pack? The "Toys R Us" store logo is blurred out, apparently there being some legal issue. The film gave me a few laughs, worth a view for indie fans. Acting was great.

If you don't like Indie films based on quirky characters with little action, then this is not for you.

Parental Guide: F-bombs. No sex or nudity.