Laura Dern Emerges as the Highlight in Bradley Cooper's New Film
Bradley Cooper's journey as a director has taken an intriguing turn with his latest feature, Is This Thing On?. While his previous works, A Star is Born and Maestro, garnered Oscar attention, this new film presents a more subdued yet compelling narrative. Released in early 2026, it delves into the complexities of marriage and personal rediscovery, with Laura Dern delivering a performance that truly captivates audiences.
A Story of Separation and Self-Discovery
The film centres on Alex and Tess Novak, a married couple navigating the painful process of separation. Will Arnett portrays Alex, a finance worker lacking inspiration, while Laura Dern plays Tess, a former professional volleyball player now dedicated to motherhood. Their relationship has drifted not due to betrayal, but because their individual paths have diverged, despite lingering affection.
Alex's struggle with depression is palpable from the opening scenes, where he watches his children enjoy a school event with a distant gaze. The dissolution of his marriage only deepens his melancholy. However, an unexpected foray into stand-up comedy at an open mic night offers a glimmer of hope and a potential outlet for his emotions.
Not Your Typical Comedy
Viewers expecting a lighthearted comedy might be surprised. Is This Thing On? is more a drama about a comedian than a comedic film itself, akin to titles like Manny Lewis featuring Carl Barron. The screenplay, co-written by Cooper and Arnett—both of whom have personal experience with divorce—brings an authentic touch to the dialogue, portraying the couple's split with maturity and without malice.
Alex uses his stand-up routines as a form of therapy, sharing his life experiences with a subtle humorous twist. While his performances are well-received within the film, they may not always resonate as laugh-out-loud moments for the audience, reminiscent of certain episodes in modern anthology series.
A Stellar Supporting Cast and Real-Life Inspirations
Cooper has assembled a robust supporting ensemble, including Oscar nominees Andra Day and Ciaran Hinds, alongside Sean Hayes, Amy Sedaris, and even former NFL star Peyton Manning. Arnett showcases surprising depth beyond his comedic roots, but it is Dern who truly steals the show. Though her screen time is less than Arnett's, she brings Tess to life with radiant emotion, making her frustrations and joys incredibly relatable.
The film draws inspiration from the real-life story of British comedian John Bishop, who turned to stand-up during a relationship breakdown. This adds a layer of authenticity to Alex's journey. Cooper's directorial focus on performers—whether musicians, composers, or comics—continues here, leaving fans curious about his next project.
Final Thoughts
Is This Thing On? may not have made waves in the awards season like Cooper's earlier films, but it offers a poignant exploration of marriage and personal growth. With strong performances, particularly from Laura Dern, and a narrative that balances drama with moments of levity, it stands as a thoughtful addition to Cooper's growing directorial portfolio. Fans of character-driven stories and American stand-up culture will find much to appreciate in this film.
