Fri Dec 19 13:30:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bradley Cooper’s ‘Is This Thing On?’ Explores Marriage Through Stand-Up Comedy

NEW YORK, NY – Bradley Cooper’s latest directorial effort, “Is This Thing On?”, dives into the complexities of a dissolving marriage through the unexpected lens of stand-up comedy. The film stars Will Arnett as Alex, a man navigating his separation from his wife Tess, played by Laura Dern, after 26 years together.

Seeking an outlet, Alex impulsively decides to try stand-up at a local comedy club, despite having no prior experience. He finds himself using the stage to work through his feelings about the separation, mining his marital troubles for comedic material.

While Alex finds solace and perhaps a new purpose in comedy, Tess rediscovers her passion for volleyball, becoming a coach and finding fulfillment outside of their marriage. The film explores not only their individual journeys but also the impact of their separation on their two sons, who struggle to understand their father’s newfound hobby and the jokes he makes about their family.

“Is This Thing On?” features a supporting cast of New York comedy scene regulars and a cameo from Cooper himself as the couple’s self-absorbed actor friend. Critics are praising the film’s warm, funny, and relatable portrayal of marital challenges, family dynamics, and mid-life reinvention.

Cooper, who also directed “A Star Is Born” and “Maestro,” continues his exploration of relationships with “Is This Thing On?”. The film is described as an improv-like experience that gently sneaks up on the audience with its heartfelt and humorous moments.

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