Is This Thing On? — NYFF Review
Source: Searchlight Pictures
Bradley Cooper’s third feature film, Is This Thing On?, exhibits the same intrigue with romantic complexities and a passion for the arts that were on display in his previous films, A Star Is Born and Maestro. This time, however, the art form is stand-up comedy rather than music. The film follows Alex Novak (Will Arnett), who reaches an amicable decision with his wife Tess (Laura Dern) to separate. One night, Alex wants a drink, but the bar has a $15 cover charge. The bouncer informs him that people who sign up for the open mic night are exempt from the cover, so he signs up. This awakens something in him, and he rapidly develops a passion for performing stand-up. On the surface, Is This Thing On? seems like it would be a simple movie about a man coping with his impending divorce by pursuing stand-up comedy, but in reality, it’s so much more than that.
Much like Alex’s stand-up career, Is This Thing On? has a rocky start and struggles to find its footing. As Alex’s stage presence improves, so does the film itself. I can pinpoint the precise moment the movie transformed from adequate to something special. However, it feels like a spoiler to divulge too much of the storyline. Cooper takes the story in unexpected directions, and I was impressed with his ability to subvert my expectations.
Source: Searchlight Pictures
Cooper’s direction is assured and empathetic. He often frames Alex on stage in close-ups and long, unbroken takes, allowing Arnett’s performance to breathe and emphasizing the vulnerability of stand-up. The stand-up sequences are surprisingly sharp. Rather than feeling like filler, the jokes evolve with Alex’s emotional arc, reflecting his maturation and growing self-awareness.
The cinematography mirrors Alex’s growth as well, shifting from darker, dimly lit images to more vibrant and colorful compositions as he develops his confidence. The editing is exceptional. For example, there’s a match cut transition where Alex walks out of a room during an argument and then immediately walks on stage at the comedy show to vent about his frustrations. This stylistic flourish calls to mind Cooper’s previous work in Maestro and helps maintain the pacing and momentum, ensuring that Alex’s personal and artistic journeys feel inextricably linked.
Is This Thing On? depicts the highs and lows of relationships as well as the nuances and complexities of romance. There are moments that made me want to sulk in my seat, lamenting that love isn’t real and relationships aren’t worth it. Yet at the same time, there were moments that made me want to jump on a bed and kick my feet in the air like a giddy schoolgirl thinking about her crush. This isn’t the type of film that can be shoved neatly into a box. It’s both a drama and a comedy. The story balances romance with levelheadedness. It’s got traces of both optimism and pessimism. Love isn’t black-and-white, and Cooper captures everything in between with compassion and precision.
Source: Searchlight Pictures
Laura Dern and Will Arnett have palpable chemistry, making it easy for the audience to root for each of them to find their happiness. Ultimately, that’s what Is This Thing On? is truly about. It’s a stirring reminder that relationships require work, but self-love is equally vital. We need to communicate and consistently put effort into our relationships, but we also need to create our own happiness that’s separate from the people we love. It’s imperative that we do things that bring us joy, pursue our passions, and are capable of being happy on our own. That way, we can come together with our loved ones as our authentic selves and help bring out the best in each other. When we stop pursuing our own hobbies and tie our identity to someone else, the spark starts to fade, and we grow to resent that person.
Is This Thing On? is a sweet, insightful reflection on romance disguised as a divorce movie. Audiences might draw comparisons to Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, due to the topic of divorce and another magnetic performance from Laura Dern. However, Is This Thing On? is not derivative. Cooper has something entirely different to say, and he says it with both stylistic confidence and emotional sincerity.
With its bittersweet mix of laughter, heartbreak, and self-discovery, Is This Thing On? cements Cooper as a filmmaker deeply attuned to the messiness of human connection. The film isn’t always perfect, but it’s honest and emotionally resonant. Arnett delivers some of his most vulnerable work to date, while Dern once again proves why she’s one of the most compelling actors working today. Together, under Cooper’s careful direction, they create a portrait of love that’s raw, complicated, and ultimately hopeful. It’s a film that sneaks up on you, growing richer and more moving as it rolls along.
Is This Thing On? had its world premiere as the closing film of the New York Film Festival on October 10, 2025. It is scheduled to be released in theaters on December 19th.
