Sun Dec 07 01:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided blog post:
Summary:
Bradley Cooper’s third directorial effort, “Is This Thing On?”, stars Will Arnett and Laura Dern as a couple navigating an amicable separation. Arnett’s character, Alex, finds unexpected fulfillment and catharsis in stand-up comedy, while Dern’s character, Tess, rediscovers her passion for volleyball. The film explores their individual journeys and the lingering connection between them, avoiding easy resolutions and highlighting the complexities of relationships. While the film has some pacing issues and minor flaws, the strong performances of Arnett and Dern, coupled with Cooper’s empathetic character-driven direction, make it a worthwhile viewing experience. The reviewer notes that Cooper seems to be aiming for a more intimate and smaller storytelling which works for him.
News Article:
Bradley Cooper Explores Love, Loss, and Laughter in New Film “Is This Thing On?”
New York, NY – Bradley Cooper continues his directing career with “Is This Thing On?”, a character-driven drama starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern as a couple navigating separation and self-discovery. The film, Cooper’s third directorial effort following the success of “A Star is Born” and “Maestro”, explores themes of identity, artistic expression, and the enduring complexities of relationships.
Arnett delivers what is described as the best performance of his career as Alex Novak, a man who unexpectedly finds solace and success in stand-up comedy after his amicable split from his wife, Tess, played by Dern. Dern shines as Tess who gets back to coaching volleyball. The film follows their individual journeys as they pursue new passions and navigate the challenges of co-parenting and rediscovering themselves.
According to early reviews, “Is This Thing On?” offers a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of separation, avoiding simplistic narratives and highlighting the anxieties and uncertainties inherent in struggling relationships. While some critics note pacing issues and minor distractions, the strong performances of Arnett and Dern, along with Cooper’s empathetic and intimate direction, contribute to an overall compelling viewing experience.
“Cooper is aiming smaller and more intimate for this film which I think is a good thing for him as a filmmaker,” reads one review.
“Is This Thing On?” features supporting performances from Ciarán Hinds, Christine Ebersole, and Andra Day. A release date has not yet been announced but it will probably be available on streaming after its release in theatres.
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