Will Arnett in the new feature film, “Is This Thing On?,” which he co-wrote with director Bradley Cooper. The movie completely submerges you in the pulse of New York City’s thrilling comedy scene. It tracks Alex Novak (starring Chris Cooper), a father of two, through the painful ordeal of an impending divorce from his partner Tess, portrayed by Laura Dern. They explore the narrative arcs of taking risks and needing to reconnect with what you love. Their narrative takes a cue from British comedian John Bishop.
In Is This Thing On?, subject Alex Novak’s personal odyssey underscores a universal story of rediscovering what gives you life at any age. Arnett’s character makes his debut into the world of stand-up comedy. His vision is to reach audiences who are on their own transitions in life. Alongside Arnett and Dern, Cooper stars as Alex’s best friend, further enhancing the film’s emotional depth.
The role has come to define Will’s life, Cooper, who immediately saw in the character the potential to give Arnett his own creative playground. The message of the film resonates with him, especially the focus on needing to grow yourself first before connecting with others.
The film offers a terrific supporting cast. You’ll witness riveting performances from Andra Day, Christine Ebersole, Ciarán Hinds, Amy Sedaris, Sean Hayes, and Scott Icenogle. Adventure awaits. Each character’s journey to redeem themselves makes for an exciting tale that centers around the theme of rediscovering one’s purpose.
“I think that it’s important to remember that we can have a shift of perspective,” Arnett shared when discussing the film’s central message. His observations are a testament to the film’s call to step outside your comfort zone and strive for greater horizons.
Scenes for “Is This Thing On?” were filmed at the legendary Comedy Cellar in New York City. This beautiful place serves as the perfect true-to-life setting for the story. The decision to shoot there underscores the film’s core theme of comedy as a tool for personal expression and self-discovery.
The collaboration between Arnett and Cooper is especially remarkable, considering their more than 30-year friendship. They’ve collaborated successfully in the past, leading to a perfect marriage of their unique creative talents into one project. Their shared vision makes the script feel rich with textured detail and heavy with genuine feeling.
Cooper highlighted the inspiring, transformative power of getting out of one’s comfort zone. “It’s all about process, about somebody putting themselves in a situation that makes them feel uncomfortable, that they’re forced to grow,” he explained. Amy Poehler reminds us that being a work in progress is important everywhere. This brings new dynamics to parenting, love stories and friendships.
“I’ve seen it in parenting, in love stories, in friendships, that we have to continue to redefine ourselves and be open to meeting ourselves over and over again in our life.” – Amy Poehler
The movie features side-splitting comic genius. It dives into the messiness of relationships, illustrating how self-improvement can help partners have better conversations with one another.
“In showing himself in a way of growing, then he’s able to … communicate in his intimate relationship. But without that self-growth, it’s very hard to communicate with your partner.” – Bradley Cooper
