Directed by Bradley Cooper and starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern, Is This Thing On? takes to the comedy stage with the release of the new trailer.
Loosely inspired by the life of British comedian John Bishop, Bradley Cooper returns behind the camera with the comedy-drama, Is This Thing On? The film features a winning acting partnership between Will Arnett and Laura Dern. They portray a couple who have amicably ended their marriage. Bradley Cooper, Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, Sean Hayes, Christine Ebersole, and Ciarán Hinds also star in the film. It has been highly praised by critics, with notices such as:
★★★★ THE GUARDIAN
★★★★★ THE TIMES
★★★★ THE TELEGRAPH
UK audiences today get their first complete look at the highly anticipated & critically acclaimed comedy-drama. The new trailer drops this afternoon. Let’s take a look at what we can expect.
PREMISE
As their marriage quietly unravels, Alex (Will Arnett) faces middle age and an impending divorce and finds new purpose in the New York comedy scene. At the same time, Tess (Laura Dern) confronts the sacrifices she made for their family – forcing them to navigate co-parenting, identity, and whether love can take a new form. Both are raising two boys and maintaining their friendships. Alex discovers a new hobby and, in the process, learns more about himself and his relationship.
We saw the film recently at The BFI London Film Festival, and loved it. Our editor, Phil Roberts, said about the film:
Bradley Cooper’s #IsThisThingOn is a delightful treat. Cooper’s sharp screenplay explores married life wonderfully while also embracing the bizarre nature of relationships.
The screenplay is fun, uplifting, poignant and utterly hilarious. Will Arnett and Laura Dern are 🔥 #LFF
I myself loved the film and said about it:
Bradley Cooper’s #IsThisThingOn is a marvellously delightful comedy drama that ticks every box.
Will Arnett and Laura Dern are superb as the separated couple making the best of their situation for their children.
Funny, moving and uplifting.
#BFI #LFF
BEHIND THE SCENES
Bradley Cooper, Weston Middleton, Will Arnett, and Kris Thykier produced the film. Bradley Cooper, Will Arnett and Mark Chappell have written the screenplay from a story by Will Arnett, Mark Chappell and John Bishop himself.
The film is a wonderful, entertaining time at the movies, with brilliant comedy alongside real drama we can all relate to. As you can see from the trailer, the film will become a much-loved piece of entertainment, with Arnett giving an excellent performance, showing how stand-up comedians draw on personal experiences to create their material.
IS THIS THING ON? releases in UK cinemas on 30th January 2026.
Introducing Carl! As the News Editor at Future of the Force, Carl has been an invaluable member of our team since early 2016. His expertise and dedication have made him an integral part of our editorial staff. Beyond his professional role, Carl is a fervent supporter of Liverpool F.C. and an avid follower of pop culture. He has a deep passion for Halloween, Friday the 13th, and the iconic movie franchises Star Wars and Star Trek.
He can be found either at his neighborhood cinema, enjoying the latest releases on the big screen, or at home streaming the newest blockbuster movies.
