Is This Thing On? (2026)

Directed by Bradley Cooper, Is This Thing On? is loosely based on popular British comedian John Bishop’s life.

Will Arnett stars as the self-deprecating and dryly funny Alex Novak alongside Oscar-winning actress Laura Dern who plays Alex’s wife Tess.

As their marriage quietly unravels, Alex seeks 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.

Is This Thing On? is the third film in Bradley Cooper’s directorial career and, as if often the way with actor-turned-directors, he has cast himself in the great, very amusing, role of Arnie; Alex’s permanently stoned best pal.

“The characters are so engaging”
The Times ★★★★★

“Like a great routine, beneath the jokes lurks something tender, grounded and real”
The Guardian ★★★★

“It’s Cooper’s funniest film behind the camera”
Empire ★★★★

“The performances are really great”
Mark Kermode