Is This Thing On?

Is This Thing On? is a 2025 American comedy‑drama that follows Alex and Tess as they navigate the awkward, yet oddly hopeful, aftermath of a quiet divorce. The film, directed by Bradley Cooper and co‑written with Will Arnett and Mark Chappell, is loosely inspired by the life of English comedian John Bishop and stars Arnett, Laura Dern, Cooper, Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, Sean Hayes, Christine Ebersole and Ciarán Hinds. With a runtime of 121 minutes, it premiered as the closing film of the 2025 New York Film Festival on October 10 and hit U.S. theaters on December 19, 2025, under Searchlight Pictures.

The story kicks off with Alex and Tess, after many years together, deciding to end their marriage amicably. They’re left to figure out how to live separately while raising their two boys, Felix and Jude, and keeping their friendships intact. Alex, feeling a sudden urge to find a new purpose, starts doing stand‑up at the Comedy Cellar, while Tess returns to her passion for volleyball and dreams of coaching the women’s team for the 2028 Summer Olympics. As they both chase new careers, they also confront the sacrifices they made for their family and the identity shifts that come with being single parents.

What makes the film tick is its blend of humor and heart. The comedy of remarriage is handled with a sly, mature wit that keeps the audience laughing while also feeling the weight of the characters’ choices. Critics praised Cooper’s “unassuming” direction for grounding the story in New York’s vibrant comedy scene, and Arnett’s stand‑up performances were highlighted as intimate, authentic moments that showcase his comedic chops. Dern’s portrayal of Tess brings vulnerability and spirited emotion, creating a dynamic that feels both barbed and witty.

Fans of Will Arnett’s dry humor and Bradley Cooper’s thoughtful storytelling will find plenty to love. The film’s 87 % approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 72/100 on Metacritic reflect its generally favorable reception. If you enjoy movies that explore relationships with honesty and a dash of comedy—think “The Big Sick” meets “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”—you’ll likely appreciate the nuanced performances and the film’s honest look at love in its later stages.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a light‑hearted rom‑com with no real emotional depth, or if you prefer slapstick over subtle humor, this might not be your cup of tea. The film’s focus on mature themes and the complexities of co‑parenting means it leans more toward a thoughtful, character‑driven experience than a quick laugh‑out‑loud romp.