First Trailer for Bradley Cooper’s Is This Thing On? Depicts a Marriage Evolving

      Returning with his third directorial project just a few months after filming wrapped, Bradley Cooper's *Is This Thing On?* takes inspiration from the life of British comedian John Bishop. The film follows a stand-up comedian (played by Will Arnett) navigating the mutual divorce from his wife Tess (Laura Dern). Alongside Cooper, the cast includes Andra Day, Christine Ebersole, Ciarán Hinds, Sean Hayes, Peyton Manning, and Amy Sedaris. The movie will have its world premiere at the New York Film Festival before its release at the end of December. Ahead of the premiere, the first trailer has been released by Searchlight Pictures.

      The NYFF synopsis reads: "In a pair of electrifying, deeply sincere performances, Will Arnett and Laura Dern portray Alex and Tess Novak, a couple whose marriage has hit a standstill. With heartfelt acceptance, they decide to separate, as they are the parents of two young boys. However, in Bradley Cooper’s sharply observed comedic drama, this separation sparks unexpected midlife introspection, particularly in Alex's bold career shift to become a confessional stand-up comedian in New York City's West Village, where he discovers new purpose and camaraderie. This seemingly improbable premise—drawn from a screenplay by Cooper, Arnett, and Mark Chappell based on the true story of John Bishop—avoids cheap humor, as Cooper skillfully allows the actors to explore their complex emotions. In his richly crafted third feature following *A Star Is Born* and *Maestro* (NYFF61), Cooper demonstrates his ability to portray the intricacies of human relationships, creating a film that is both cutting and heartfelt, infused with humor and tenderness. *Is This Thing On?* boasts a remarkable supporting cast, including Andra Day, Christine Ebersole, Ciarán Hinds, Sean Hayes, Peyton Manning, and Amy Sedaris, complemented by vibrant contributions from New York stand-up staples such as Chloe Radcliffe, Reggie Conquest, and Jordan Jensen, adding to the film's authentic downtown vibe."

      Watch the trailer below in anticipation of its December 19 release.