Bradley Cooper Directs New Comedy With Will Arnett, Laura Dern

Bradley Cooper Directs New Comedy ‘Is This Thing On?’ with Will Arnett and Laura Dern.Bradley Cooper has unveiled his next directorial project. The film is a comedy titled ‘Is This Thing On?’.It stars Will Arnett and Laura Dern as a couple navigating a divorce. The project marks a shift from Cooper’s previous dramatic work.Searchlight Pictures will release the film. It is scheduled for a December 2025 premiere.

First Trailer Reveals Stand-Up Comedy and Divorce Plot

The first trailer for ‘Is This Thing On?’ was released this week. It introduces Will Arnett as Alex.His character attempts stand-up comedy amid a crumbling marriage. Laura Dern plays his wife, Tess.They struggle with co-parenting and redefining their relationship. The footage has a stylistic feel reminiscent of ‘Birdman’.According to Vanity Fair, the story was inspired by comedian John Bishop’s life. Cooper co-wrote the screenplay with Arnett and Mark Chappell.The cast also includes Cooper, Andra Day, and Amy Sedaris. The official synopsis describes a quiet marital unraveling.

Cooper Describes Film as a “Midlife Catharsis”

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Bradley Cooper recently discussed the film’s themes. He insists it is not a typical midlife crisis story.Cooper called the project a “midlife catharsis” instead. He explained the difference in a new interview.”Sometimes you realize you’re coasting,” Cooper told Vanity Fair. “You’ve lost your rudder in life.”He praised Will Arnett’s performance as a struggling comedian. He said it was incredible to behold.The director emphasized the film’s honest look at relationships. It explores if love can take a new form after divorce.

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‘Is This Thing On?’ presents a fresh take on modern relationships. Bradley Cooper’s new comedy arrives in theaters December 19, 2025.

Must Know (FAQ Section)

Who is directing ‘Is This Thing On?’?

Bradley Cooper is the director. He also co-wrote the screenplay and has a supporting acting role in the film.

What is the plot of the new movie?

The film follows a couple navigating a divorce. The husband explores stand-up comedy while they both face new challenges.

   

When will the film be released?

Searchlight Pictures will release the movie. The premiere date is set for December 19, 2025.

Who stars in the comedy alongside Will Arnett?

Laura Dern stars as the female lead. The supporting cast includes Bradley Cooper, Andra Day, and Amy Sedaris.

Is this based on a true story?

The screenplay was inspired by the life of comedian John Bishop. However, the story is a fictionalized account.