A review of Bradley Cooper's 'Is This Thing On?', starring Will Arnett as a newly divorced man who unexpectedly finds his calling in stand-up comedy, leading to a subtle and endearing rom-com with his ex-wife, Laura Dern, about midlife self-discovery.
Bradley Cooper's latest directorial effort, 'Is This Thing On?', offers a subtle, self-deprecating, and ultimately endearing rom-com about Alex (Will Arnett) and Tess (Laura Dern), a couple navigating an amicable divorce after two decades. Alex, described as a 'walking, middle-aged black rain cloud' due to his divorce and a little high, stumbles into stand-up comedy by signing up for an open mic to avoid a $15 bar cover. Despite his lack of experience, he surprisingly excels, transforming his pain into self-deprecating humor. Will Arnett, known for his gravelly voice and charmingly sad-sack characters, perfectly embodies Alex, making him relatable in his midlife pursuit. Laura Dern is equally captivating as Tess, a former Olympic volleyball player who, like Alex, embarks on a journey of self-rediscovery and new hobbies post-split. The film refreshingly prioritizes the challenges of rebuilding identity and self-worth in middle age over typical dating scenarios. Loosely inspired by British comedian John Bishop, the movie celebrates New York's vibrant comedy scene, showing Alex's growth from accidental natural to a student of the craft, surrounded by real stand-up comedians. While some supporting characters, including Bradley Cooper's own role, are noted as distracting, the magnetic and evolving dynamic between Arnett and Dern provides the film's emotional core. Their performances authentically portray the complexities of this transitional period, creating an absorbing portrait of a relationship in flux. 'Is This Thing On?' begins with a comedic premise but delves into something tender, grounded, and real, exploring unexpected love and self-reinvention. The film is screening at the New York film festival and will be released in US cinemas on December 19, Australian cinemas on January 22, and in the UK on January 30.
