Bradley Cooper, in his acting career, is recognized for his engaging performances in movies such as Silver Linings Playbook, American Hustle, and Guardians of the Galaxy, where he provided the voice for Rocket Raccoon. He frequently portrays characters that are foolish, narcissistic, angry, or uncivilized. Nonetheless, in his role as a filmmaker, Cooper often comes across as excessively serious, even in his comedic film Is This Thing On?

Curiously, Cooper does not appear in the lead role of his latest movie, differing from his earlier directing endeavors A Star is Born (2018) and Maestro. Instead, he takes on a smaller role, while Will Arnett and Laura Dern lead as a couple dealing with the dissolution of their 20-year marriage. In contrast to his earlier works, this narrative focuses more on a friendly separation rather than dramatic confrontations. The soon-to-be ex-husband channels his sorrow into stand-up comedy, but the outcome is neither especially amusing nor insightful.

Is This Thing On? seems out of touch.

The movie depends on clichés and a storyline reminiscent of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, appearing as a remnant from the late 2010s. Arnett takes on the role of Alex Novak, who leads an unremarkable life during the day and tries to make a go of stand-up comedy at night. He doesn’t aim to become a professional comedian; rather, he represents the stereotype of sidestepping therapy by finding comfort on stage.

Alex’s comedy routine revolves around discussing his life, his wife Tess (Dern), and his personal troubles, seeking attention or possibly redemption. While he experiences some joy in entertaining others, he seems more thankful for the camaraderie of fellow comedians who accept him and provide guidance.

The story is not centered on Alex’s transformation into a great comic or his integration into the comedy scene. It’s instead a self-indulgent narrative of a mediocre individual doing the minimum and feeling somewhat remorseful about it. A female character who exists solely to ridicule and support Alex calls him a “good” person, appearing to be the film’s excuse for his actions.

Bradley Cooper’s interest in flawed men and the women who tolerate them.

Cooper’s works frequently showcase troubled men and the resilient women who endure them. A Star Is Born was a remake that featured a remarkable performance from Lady Gaga, while Maestro propagated biphobic stereotypes. Both films nostalgically reference Hollywood’s Golden Age but carry outdated concepts. Is This Thing On? is less controversial in this aspect but still adheres to conventional gender roles. Alex is an amateur comic, while his wife was a former Olympic volleyball player.

Alex appears unkempt and rough around the edges, embodying the image of a man on the brink of divorce. The cinematography by Matthew Libatique often highlights Alex’s face, creating an atmosphere of closeness and direct connection with the viewers. However, the film’s grasp of Alex’s emotional condition is debatable. He begins to recognize past errors but remains oblivious to present ones. Despite having two young sons, Alex acts more like a visitor than a parent, arriving tardy to a birthday celebration without a gift and evading cleanup responsibilities.

Is This Thing On? lacks comedy, but the supporting cast excels.

Alex’s stand-up performance isn’t particularly humorous, leaning on worn-out jokes and occasional self-mockery. Nevertheless, the film implies that one can engage in the performing arts as a pastime without the need for proficiency or success. Cooper’s character, a struggling actor, embodies this notion.

Cooper’s character, Balls, serves as comic relief, entering with a mishap and maintaining an optimistic perspective despite his failures. Christine Ebersole offers a funny portrayal as Alex’s mother, while Laura Dern adds emotional nuance to the role of Tess. The film examines the dynamics of Alex and Tess’s relationship, but Dern’s character often experiences emotional moments offstage, highlighting the imbalance in their marriage.

Ultimately, Is This Thing On? is an unremarkable film about an unremarkable man. While it presents a fresh perspective on divorce devoid of the typical vitriol, it fails to tackle the underlying gender norms. The supporting cast, including Peyton Manning and actual stand-up comedians, deliver commendable performances. Will Arnett, comfortably fitting the role of a middle-aged man seeking validation, anchors the film. However, the narrative lacks engagement, leaving the audience anticipating its conclusion.

Is This Thing On? was reviewed following its premiere at