The film received largely negative reviews, but praise was given to the production values, editing, and the performances by Dempsey, Milano and Downey.

The film covers one day in her life, during which she must clean many pools in the midst of a drought that interferes with her usual water supply.

In addition to dealing with several eccentric customers, including mobster Chick Chicalini and filmmaker Franz Mazur, Hugo must care for her needy parents Minerva and Henry.

"[4] A Variety review states, "the movie seldom achieves the quirky, zany rhythm it strives for"; Hugo Pool is "a comedy that should have been messier and more outrageous."

He said it had "several failed attempts at heartfelt sincerity", but noted that Downey Jr. was "bizarrely captivating (if a bit over-cooked) as an eccentric film director.