In a season brimming with awards buzz, Deadline’s Read the Screenplay series casts a spotlight on “Is This Thing On?”, a comedy-drama that delves into the vibrant and often tumultuous world of New York stand-up comedy. Directed by Bradley Cooper, the film is inspired by an original screenplay penned by its star Will Arnett and co-writer Mark Chappell.
The film made its world premiere at the New York Film Festival in October, a fitting debut considering its setting in the heart of New York City. It is set to hit select theaters on December 19, leading audiences to tread carefully as spoilers start to surface.
Arnett takes on the role of Alex, a man grappling with his midlife crisis and navigating the complexities of his unraveling marriage to Tess, played by Laura Dern. As an ex-athlete undergoing a similar existential examination, the duo embarks on a journey of co-parenting amid the chaos of their personal lives, all while questioning whether love can evolve in unexpected ways. For Alex, this introspection unfolds on the stages of local comedy clubs where he seeks to make sense of his experiences through humor.
The inspiration for the film stems from the real-life story of John Bishop, a pharmaceutical representative from Manchester. Faced with his own divorce, Bishop found solace in a local pub’s open-mic night, where he channeled his struggles into stand-up routines that humorously addressed his marital troubles. This therapeutic approach to comedy became a lifeline for him, culminating in a poignant moment when his estranged wife unexpectedly appeared in the audience.
Upon hearing Bishop’s story, Arnett was captivated and collaborated with Chappell to craft a screenplay. They eventually brought the script to Cooper, who, while working on his Oscar-nominated project “Maestro”, took an interest in infusing the narrative with authentic comedy insights and deepening the relationship dynamics between Alex and Tess. Cooper’s background in stand-up, combined with his directorial vision, paved the way for a compelling portrayal of the comedic realm.
In addition to his role as director, Cooper also shares the screen with a talented ensemble cast, including Andra Day, Christine Ebersole, Ciarán Hinds, Amy Sedaris, Sean Hayes, and Scott Icenogle. While Arnett and Chappell are credited with the screenplay, Cooper receives “screenplay by” acknowledgment, with the “story by” credit going to the trio of Arnett, Chappell, and Bishop.
As audiences await the film’s theatrical release, the blend of comedy and heartfelt narrative promises a unique exploration of love, loss, and the power of laughter in the face of life’s challenges.
