[2] Daniel (Jon Cryer) and Stan (Rick Stear) search for a childhood friend of theirs – Richie (Rafael Báez), who they believe may be homeless and mentally ill.

Stan, who limps as a result of a childhood medical procedure, is a borderline alcoholic and gambler who fights endlessly with his longtime girlfriend, Gabby (Ione Skye).

[3] A. O. Scott of The New York Times gave it a mixed review and wrote,"Went to Coney Island never quite comes to dramatic or comic life.

"[4] Emanuel Levy of Variety wrote that Cryer, Baez, and Stear "give proficient performances that serve the material well, though they can't elevate it to the poignancy and depth intended by the director".

[5] Kevin Thomas of the Los Angeles Times called it a "deeply felt, engaging little film" that will stick with audiences after it ends.