Is This Thing On? Review: An Intimate, Brilliantly Acted Comedy-Drama

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Is This Thing On? is a funny and touching story about a man navigating a recent separation and finding unexpected healing through stand-up comedy. Will Arnett delivers a raw and honest performance that’s sure to resonate with audiences, and Laura Dern shines as his soon-to-be ex-wife, who is also figuring out how to build a new life on her own. The film explores the difficult question of finding your own identity after years of being part of a couple, and shows how the problems that led to their split are unexpectedly revisited. It reveals that even when relationships end, the connections aren’t always easily broken.

In New York City, Alex and Tess Novak go to a dinner party hosted by close friends. Though they appear happy and connected, everyone senses a hidden tension. After the party, Alex walks Tess to the train, nearly joining her on the ride before realizing he can’t. As the train departs, he’s left feeling downcast. Wandering through the West Village, Alex stumbles upon a small comedy club with an open-mic night. He signs up to perform, hoping to get in for free instead of paying the entrance fee.

Will Arnett Stuns

Standing under the harsh stage lights, facing a room full of strangers, Alex has hit rock bottom. He’s lost and heartbroken, struggling to understand how his life fell apart. For 26 years, Tess and their two sons were everything to him, and even now, they remain his priority. Now he finds himself alone, living in a sparsely furnished apartment. He’s desperate for a path forward, unable to bear even one more night parked outside the house he used to share with his family. On stage, he shares his raw emotions, exposing his deep pain, and is surprised when his vulnerability is met with applause. He’s discovered an unexpected way to express his sadness and frustration.

The film *Is This Thing On?* brilliantly captures small, powerful moments. Director Cooper (known for *A Star Is Born* and *Maestro*) uses intimate close-ups and lengthy, flowing shots, along with minimal editing and a lack of wide angles, to make the audience feel incredibly close to the characters. We witness Alex’s emotional journey through subtle changes in his expressions, showing his growth even without all the answers. He finds support and friendship with a group of local comedians, who inspire and uplift him. David Arnett’s performance beautifully portrays this transformation as he discovers new hope through these connections. The film demonstrates how friendship and humor can help someone overcome sadness and find the strength to keep going, and the direction the story takes in its second half is sure to captivate viewers.

Open Mic Night

Cooper’s storytelling prioritizes deep character development and personal moments, giving actors a lot of room to add subtle details to their performances. Even small scenes – like a character looking in a mirror or being alone with their thoughts – can be surprisingly powerful. Cooper demonstrates that taking a moment of quiet can build confidence. Alex doesn’t become an overnight comedy sensation; he has to work at his craft and shape his experiences into a routine. This struggle is precisely what makes his comedy work – he shares a relatable, human story with the audience.

Will Arnett doesn’t play Alex as someone who’s naturally funny, and that’s a testament to his acting ability. It’s surprising when Alex starts doing comedy because he’s usually portrayed as quiet and serious. Because the audience knows Arnett can handle comedic roles, it’s believable when Alex is first shown as sad and struggling. This change in Alex’s story relies heavily on Arnett being convincing as a dramatic character. Alex’s ability to grow and change, rather than stay stuck in unhappiness, is noticed by Tess, who is also trying to improve her own life.

Laura Dern as Tess

Alex and Tess didn’t split up due to a dramatic affair or cruel betrayal. The film, *Is This Thing On?*, focuses on the realistic way couples grow apart – through everyday issues and a lack of open communication. Despite still caring for each other, Alex and Tess never truly discussed what led to their separation. The actors, Arnett and Dern, brilliantly portray the pain of their fractured relationship, and the emotional climax, where years of unspoken feelings finally erupt, is incredibly powerful. Director Cooper allows these raw emotions to unfold naturally, creating electric scenes that build to a satisfying and beautifully shot conclusion.

The film *Is This Thing On?* is a Lea Pictures and Archery Pictures production, and will be released in theaters on December 19th by Searchlight Pictures. It previously screened at the 63rd New York Film Festival.

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2025-10-11 03:09