Will Arnett, known for his comic roles, steps into a more serious part in this Bradley Cooper comedy drama as Alex, a man grappling with a failing marriage while trying standup comedy on a whim. Set against the backdrop of his suburban life with two young children and an impending divorce, Alex’s unexpected dive into performing reveals a tender, if uncertain, path toward finding himself through humor.
The Struggles Behind Alex’s Comedy and Family Life
Alex isn’t portrayed as an outright failure on stage, nor is he a brilliant talent. Instead, his comedy is rooted in honest, awkward confessionals that slowly gain a following. The film raises questions about whether Alex truly possesses natural comedic skill or if standup is merely a temporary refuge from his crumbling personal life. Meanwhile, his wife Tess, a former volleyball coach now stay-at-home mom, wrestles with depression stemming from sacrifices she made for their family, adding strain to the marriage.
Bradley Cooper’s Role and the Inspiration Behind the Story
The film is directed and co-written by Bradley Cooper, who also appears on screen as Balls, an irritating yet amusing unemployed actor, offering a role reminiscent of Arnett’s usual comedic characters. The narrative draws from British comedian John Bishop’s real-life experience of unexpectedly starting a comedy career during a difficult divorce period, blending humor with honest emotional challenges.
Complex Marital Dynamics and the Limits of Friendship
Alex and Tess’s relationship is portrayed as slowly unraveling, marked by unspoken resentments and missed support during Tess’s depression. Their circle of friends includes Stephen and Geoffrey, a couple portrayed by real-life spouses Sean Hayes and Scott Icenogle, who represent more stability, while Balls and his sharp-tongued wife Christine, played by Andra Day, face their own troubled relationship. Despite their presence, none can truly help Alex feel understood or supported.
Comedy as Escape and Conflict Within the Marriage
Lonely and unheard, Alex impulsively tries standup at a comedy club to avoid a cover charge, ultimately becoming a regular performer without his wife’s knowledge. His act, often featuring confessions about their failing intimacy, leads to a humiliating reveal for Tess. Although her reaction may stretch believability, the chemistry between Dern and Arnett brings authenticity to the difficult scene, highlighting the fragile balance between comedy and real-life pain.
Portrayal of Alex and the Desire for Genuine Comedic Growth
Arnett’s performance captures a gentle, sensitive man struggling to express himself, offering a refreshing depiction of a comedian who is neither dark nor malicious. However, the film stops short of showing Alex evolving fully into a genuinely funny comic, leaving viewers pondering whether his comedic journey is a passing phase or the start of something lasting.
Release Dates and Viewing Information
The film, titled Is This Thing On?, is now available in the United States, with scheduled releases on January 30 in the United Kingdom and February 5 in Australia, inviting audiences to experience this intimate, quietly emotional tale.
“Arnett has such a gentle face: handsome yet sensitive and wounded, the kind of face that you want to stroke sympathetically.”
– Reviewer
