The dramatic turn of a comedian has become a time-honoured tradition in Hollywood at this point,and next in line to receive his drama mask is Canada’s own Will Arnett.
Following years of bringing the funny on Arrested progress, 30 Rock, BoJack Horseman and manny other shows (and lending his gravely baritone to Lego Batman, and those unfortunate RBC commercials), Arnett takes on a role that not only broadens his dramatic abilities, but one that also delivers a more personal side to the actor we’ve not yet seen. As Alex, arnett portrays a middle-aged man navigating the end of his marriage to Tess (Laura Dern), and finding solace and stability in stand-up comedy.
Is This Thing On? marks the third directorial attempt from Bradley Cooper, and undoubtedly my favorite outing from him so far. Cooper creates an intimate world that’s unforgiving but also gentle in its reality. As Alex and Tess try to figure out a new normal as parents and friends, they go through the rigmarole all couples do when unravelling their history together, for better and for worse. The scope narrows greatly in contrast with the grand showbiz elements of A Star Is born and the superlative nature of Maestro, offering a glimpse at a more barebones Cooper.
The story is loosely based on British comedian John Bishop’s separation and eventual reconciliation with his wife, although Bishop doesn’t receive a writing credit in the film. Instead, Cooper, Arnett and British screenwriter Mark Chappell make up the co-writing team, and for the first two of them at least, their high-profile divorces in recent years lends a degree of relatability that elevates the profundity of the film.
While Arnett’s performance opens him up as an actor, Dern’s portrayal of Tess reminds us of the sheer powerhouse consistency she’s given audiences for decades. Neither character explicitly asks for sympathy from us, but Dern demands it for Tess. She lends the character a thousand minute facial ticks and sharp breaths, building a person many of us will recognize either in ourselves or in those around us.
is This Thing On? may not be a big draw this awards season,but that’s not the point of the film. This movie wasn’t made to bring home trophies or even big box office numbers; instead, it feels like a way for Cooper and Arnett to communicate through a medium they find safety and comfort in, a way for them to extend themselves as artists. And it’s a job well done.
Expanded News Report:
Will Arnett and Bradley Cooper Explore Divorce in New Film, Is This Thing On?
Los Angeles, CA – Actor and comedian Will Arnett delivers a dramatic performance in Is This Thing On?, the latest directorial effort from Bradley Cooper.The film, released [Date – insert release date here], explores the raw and often painful experience of divorce and its impact on family dynamics.
Who: Is this Thing On? stars Will Arnett as Alex, a comedian navigating a separation from his wife, Tess,
