Bradley Cooper’s New Film Explores Comedy and Divorce

NEW YORK, NY — Bradley Cooper‘s latest film, “Is This Thing On?” combines humor with the complexities of divorce and self-discovery. The movie features Will Arnett as Alex, who stumbles into stand-up comedy to process his emotions following his separation from Tess, portrayed by Laura Dern.

Set against the backdrop of New York’s famed Comedy Cellar, the film begins with Alex and Tess amicably ending their 20-year marriage. The separation, while lacking dramatic flair, opens a window into their midlife rediscovery. Alex’s foray into comedy serves as an unexpected outlet for his feelings as he shares his experiences on stage.

Written by Cooper alongside Arnett and Mark Chappell, “Is This Thing On?” showcases not only the pain of separation but also the journey of rebuilding identity and self-worth. Tess, a former Olympic volleyball player, explores new paths as she navigates coaching, while Alex finds solace in making people laugh.

Interestingly, the film loosely draws inspiration from the life of British comedian John Bishop, who also found comedy during a divorce. However, Alex’s journey has him performing at the Comedy Cellar, reinforcing the vibrant and supportive comedy scene.

Throughout the film, interactions between the characters are marked by humor and tension, reflecting the sometimes challenging nature of co-parenting. The film includes real stand-up regulars like Jordan Jenson, Reggie Conquest, and Chloe Radcliffe, as well as cameos from Sam Jay and Dave Attell.

As Alex begins to develop his comedy skills, the film strikes a balance between exploration and connection, showcasing the warmth of friendships formed through shared struggles. Despite minor distractions in the story, such as Peyton Manning‘s unexpected cameo, the core relationship between Arnett and Dern remains engaging.

In the end, “Is This Thing On?” seamlessly fuses laughter with tender moments, emphasizing that amidst life’s transitions, humor can emerge even in the most challenging times.