Bradley Cooper’s new film Is This Thing marks a fresh turn in his directing career and will debut during the upcoming fall film festival season, premiering at the New York Film Festival. The movie features Will Arnett in the lead role, playing a man who transforms the experience of going through a divorce into a comedic stand-up routine, despite having no prior background in comedy.
A Unique Collaboration with a Stellar Cast
Alongside Arnett, who co-wrote the screenplay with Cooper and Mark Chappell, the film stars Laura Dern as his wife. The supporting cast includes Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, Sean Hayes, Christine Ebersole, Ciaran Hinds, and Scott Icenogle. Although Cooper does not star in the film as the lead this time, he takes a supporting role and helped produce the movie with Arnett, Weston Middleton, and Kris Thykier.
Visual Style and Production Details
Cooper reunites with Matthew Libatique, the cinematographer behind his previous films A Star Is Born and Maestro, to create an intimate, handheld visual style. The movie was filmed primarily around New York City, contributing to its authentic atmosphere. This project follows Cooper’s success with A Star Is Born and his 2023 Leonard Bernstein biopic Maestro, both of which earned multiple Oscar nominations.
Looking Ahead to the Film’s Release and Reception
Is This Thing On? is set to open in select theaters on December 19, generating anticipation given Cooper’s track record with critically acclaimed films. The movie’s blend of personal storytelling and humor aims to resonate with audiences, offering a fresh perspective on divorce through comedy’s lens.
