This phase I trial is studying the side effects and best dose of erlotinib hydrochloride when given with isotretinoin in treating patients with recurrent malignant glioma. Erlotinib hydrochloride may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. Isotretinoin may help cells that are involved in the body's immune response to work better. Giving erlotinib hydrochloride together with isotretinoin may kill more tumor cells