Is This Thing On? is a rare gem of a film that surprises viewers with its humor, emotion, and honest portrayal of life’s unexpected challenges. Directed by Bradley Cooper and co-written with Will Arnett and Mark Chappell, the story follows Alex Novak (Arnett), who is trying to rebuild his life after separating from his wife. While loosely based on the life of comedian John Bishop, the film transcends its stand-up comedy setting to deliver a tale of self-discovery.

The narrative begins with Alex, reeling from his breakup, stumbling into the New York comedy scene. High and craving a drink, he finds himself at the door of a comedy club. When he is asked for the entry fee, Alex, caught between his hazy state and empty wallet, impulsively offers to perform a stand-up set in exchange for admission. What starts as a spontaneous decision quickly evolves into a profound journey, as he discovers solace and meaning in comedy — a tool he uses to process his pain.

Meanwhile, his wife, Tess (Laura Dern), embarks on her own path, reigniting her passion for volleyball and pursuing an ambitious dream of coaching at the Olympics. The film masterfully weaves their separate stories, delving into the complexities of co-parenting their two sons and redefining their relationship after separation.

Arnett delivers an exceptional performance, capturing the character’s awkwardness and insecurity with a blend of heartbreak and humor. The stand-up scenes truly stand out: their raw, unpolished nature adds a layer of authenticity, effectively capturing a man at the beginning of his comedic journey, using humor to navigate and make sense of his life. Dern brings warmth and depth to her role, expertly conveying the internal struggle of a woman reconciling the sacrifices she has made for her family while striving to carve out a new identity. The scenes between them are among the strongest — messy, emotional, and brimming with history and love. Their chemistry invites viewers to root for the pair, even when the shape of their future together remains uncertain.

However, the film falters in places. The aftermath of Alex and Tess sleeping together is meant to be a pivotal moment, but some subsequent dialogue and interactions feel contrived and overly scripted. While these scenes retain emotional resonance, they lack the organic rhythm of others. Additionally, Tess’s character arc — particularly her passion for volleyball and her coaching ambitions — would benefit from deeper exploration. Her journey, while compelling, lacks the development needed to make her aspirations fully convincing.

Fortunately, the performances by Arnett and Dern lend these moments enough authenticity to keep them engaging, even when the writing stumbles. The supporting cast further enhances the film, with Bradley Cooper making a memorable appearance as Alex’s eccentric best friend. Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, and Sean Hayes all contribute distinct and memorable turns.

Ultimately, Is This Thing On? stands out for its honesty. It embraces the messiness of relationships and the awkwardness of navigating life’s unexpected twists. With its blend of humor, heart, and strong performances, audiences won’t forget it.

Frank Gaimari is an author and film reviewer in Seattle. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. You can learn more about his work at www.FrankGaimari.com.