Okay, so I just heard where I’ll be able to watch Bradley Cooper’s new movie! It’s called Is This Thing On? and it’s about a guy, played by Will Arnett, who starts doing stand-up after his divorce. Apparently, it’s loosely based on the life of comedian John Bishop, who actually helped write the story. Laura Dern and Andra Day are in it too, which is awesome. I’m definitely checking this out when it hits streaming!
In the film Is This Thing On?, directed by and starring Cooper (who also co-wrote the script with Arnett and Mark Chappell), Alex Novak, a man recently separated from his wife and new to comedy, decides to try an open mic night. Like the character in Bishop’s routine, Alex performs a set about his divorce simply to avoid paying the club’s entry fee.
After a surprisingly successful comedy performance, Alex realizes he loves making people laugh and finds it incredibly therapeutic. At the same time, his former partner, Tess, is thinking about getting back into volleyball – this time as a coach for the US team – but she’s facing some tough decisions.
After sharing the film’s trailer on Instagram last August, Bishop revealed that Cooper’s movie, though set in New York City instead of Manchester and with different character names, was inspired by his own life story.
Man, it’s been a long road, but I’m so hyped that you guys are finally gonna get to see the movie based on my life! It’s all about how I got into comedy and my relationship with my wife, Mel. I think you’ll really enjoy it – I’m calling it a funny and real story about love. The movie’s called Is This Things On?
Who stars in Is This Thing On?
- Will Arnett as Alex Novak
- Laura Dern as Tess Novak
- Andra Day as Christine
- Bradley Cooper as Balls
- Amy Sedaris as Kemp
- Sean Hayes as Stephen
- Christine Ebersole as Marilyn, Alex’s mother
- Ciarán Hinds as Jan, Alex’s father
- Scott Icenogle as Geoffrey
- Chloe Radcliffe as Nina
- Jordan Jensen as Jill
- Peyton Manning as Laird
- Reggie Conquest as Dan
- James Tom as Rolo
- Gabe Fazio as Gabe the Bouncer
What did critics say about Is This Thing On?
Bradley Cooper’s latest film, following his previous directorial work on A Star Is Born and Maestro, has earned a “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with 87% of critics recommending it based on 205 reviews.
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Reviewers have applauded Is This Thing On? for exploring familiar romantic themes without becoming overly sentimental. The Financial Times described the film as “rare,” praising Cooper’s comedy as both clever and delightful, and noting its genuine warmth.
I was so glad to see such great reviews! Collider said it was really memorable and heartfelt, and Variety called it observant, bittersweet, and just a really good movie to watch. It sounds amazing!
According to Slant Magazine, Bradley’s film Is This Thing On? shares similarities with his other work, being a thoughtful and positive movie that explores creative struggles, but without forcing the audience to believe in the main character’s exceptional talent.
Where can I watch Is This Thing On?
After premiering at the New York Film Festival in October 2025 and a December theatrical release, Is This Thing On? is now streaming.
Those based in the UK can watch it on Disney+, while in the US the film is available on Hulu.
Other Bradley Cooper movies you can stream right now
If you’re interested in seeing more of Bradley Cooper’s work as a director, you can watch his first film, 2018’s A Star Is Born (featuring Lady Gaga), on Sky and Sky Cinema in the UK. It’s the third version of the 1937 movie and is also available on HBO Max through Prime Video.
I’m so excited to share that you can now watch Maestro, the new Leonard Bernstein movie starring Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan, on Netflix here in the UK! I’ve been waiting for this one and can’t wait to see it.
Is This Thing On? is streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
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Okay, gamers, listen up! The latest issue of Living Legends just dropped, and this one’s a collector’s edition all about the royal family. You can grab a copy at newsstands or order it online – don’t miss out!
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2026-05-20 23:50