
"Grilled"—starring Ray Romano as Maurice and Kevin James as Dave—was released in 2003 as a dark comedy centered around two struggling high-end meat salesmen facing personal and professional challenges. Upon its initial release, the film received mixed reviews; critics appreciated the chemistry between Romano and James but felt that the narrative struggled with consistency and tone. Its quirky premise and blending of comedy with darker themes did not immediately resonate with a broad audience, resulting in modest box office performance.
Over time, however, "Grilled" has developed a cult following among fans who appreciate its unique blend of humor and offbeat storytelling. The film is now often regarded as an underrated gem that showcases the early comedic talents of its leads before their rise to television fame. While not universally acclaimed, it stands out as a quirky piece that captures the oddities of its characters and their misadventures, earning it a modest but dedicated fanbase in the years since its release.