Bradley Cooper and Will Arnett recently shared insights into their new film, Is This Thing On?, in an exclusive clip released by ComingSoon. This Searchlight Pictures drama will be available for digital purchase and rental beginning February 10, 2026, with physical releases on 4K, Blu-ray, and DVD following on March 17. Cooper and Arnett discuss their creative connection and the complex dynamics of Arnett’s character’s marriage in the movie, providing a glimpse into the film’s emotional core.
Director Explains the Foundation of Creative Trust
Cooper emphasized the importance of fostering safety on set as a director to unlock genuine performances from actors. He said,
“Whenever you work with an actor as a director, you want to make them feel safe. That’s the first primary goal because if they’re safe, they feel free, and then they can show their soul, and then anything can happen, and you’re gonna hopefully capture magic,”
adding,
“We had such an upper hand, Will and I, because that safety was built-in in every cell of both our bodies.”
This foundation of trust evidently contributed to the film’s intimate and authentic portrayal of relationships.
Insight Into the Film’s Themes and Character Journeys
The story centers on a marriage quietly falling apart, following Alex, who grapples with middle age and an imminent divorce while seeking new meaning in New York’s comedy scene. Meanwhile, Tess, his wife, confronts the personal sacrifices she made for their family, forcing them both to reconsider co-parenting, personal identity, and the evolving definition of love. The official synopsis reads,
“As their marriage quietly unravels, Alex faces middle age and an impending divorce, seeking new purpose in the New York comedy scene, while Tess confronts the sacrifices she made for their family – forcing them to navigate co-parenting, identity, and whether love can take a new form.”
Behind the Scenes: Creative Team and Production Details
Bradley Cooper directed the film from a screenplay he co-wrote with Will Arnett and Mark Chappell. The story itself was inspired by John Bishop’s life and was penned by Arnett, Chappell, and Bishop. Production was led by Cooper, Arnett, Weston Middleton, and Kris Thykier. The crew included notable talents such as cinematographer Matthew Libatique, editor Charlie Greene, production designer Kevin Thompson, and composer James Newberry, all of whom contributed to bringing the film’s poignant narrative and delicate tone to the screen.
Home Video Release Includes an Inside Look at the Film’s Creation
The home video edition of Is This Thing On? will feature a special bonus called Mic Drop: Making Is This Thing On? This behind-the-scenes feature offers viewers an opportunity to explore the inspirations behind the story of love, loss, and new beginnings, with the filmmakers and cast discussing the creative process. It also reveals how the ensemble cast built their unique comedy scenes, adding depth to the film’s portrayal of complex relationships.
