This is a lighthearted comedy that works to find an escape from reality. It is an unexpected “reality” of finding joy in times that are questionable making Is This Thing On? one of the most authentic films of 2025. It takes a deep dive into stand-up comedy while grappling with separation. From the mind of Bradley Cooper, there are charms that are inevitable and make this a gem. Will Arnett and Laura Dern are fantastic in their roles as a couple trying to find contentment while working together but also remaining happy. The challenges are real, but the laughter and connection are also portrayed authentically in the film.

Arnett plays Alex Novak and Dern plays Tess Novak and both are grappling with their immanent divorce. At the same time, distractions present more challenges, especially when it comes to finding a new normal and dealing with their own thoughts. For Alex though, he has found a means of escape. He startsdoing open mics at the Comedy Cellar in New York. In his sets, he continuously talks about connections and disconnections, but also the correlating values are what plays into his jokes—his humor paints the portrait of how marriage is truly no picnic, and how it is pretty much unexpected disasters on a regular basis.

He finds support from his friends ranging from Stephen (played by Sean Hayes) and Christine (played by Andra Day). He also finds some support from his other friend Balls (played by Bradley Cooper himself). Deep-down though, Alex still leans on his soon-to-be ex-wife for moral support. The concept of keeping connection alive while also finding a way to escape creates a new era to remind audiences of why we are human. Relationship still exists even with those that we may have grown to despise the most. The writing of the film is eloquent in the fact that Arnett plays a comic telling his many grappling stories in a comedy club setting.

There is empathy, there is hope, and there is inspiration. The film is incredibly moving. I adored Is This Thing on? for its portrait of finding outlets to express challenging concepts in life. I also felt a sense of wanting love to come around for the characters. Even in the juxtaposition of silly humor, it fits the premise and the purpose of findings of ways to feel connected and loved.

This may be one of the most comedic, creative, and unexpected comedies yet. A comic yet tender story which highlights the creative genius of Cooper. Knockout performances by Arnett and Dern as the couple that can vibe while also juggling many classical first-world problems.  The film has its moments that tend to drag a bit, but some dramas need those moments to remind the audiences of the foundation surrounding the conflicts of the film.

 A comedy club for escapism. A couple navigating ups and downs. Many realizations of wonders. A joyful and moving film. There is love even when separation abounds, and there is creativity that can come from it. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for Is This Thing On?