Bradley Cooper, a name synonymous with both captivating performances and poignant storytelling, embarks on a new journey as a director with his film Is This Thing On?. Known for his ability to embody a range of characters from the comical to the dramatic, Cooper has often played roles that refuse to take themselves too seriously. However, in his latest directorial endeavor, he takes a more serious turn, exploring themes of marriage and separation.
In this film, Cooper does not step into the limelight as the lead actor, a departure from his previous works like A Star is Born and Maestro. Instead, he adopts the role of a side character while Will Arnett takes center stage alongside Laura Dern, who plays his estranged wife. The narrative unfolds around a middle-aged couple grappling with the emotional turmoil of ending a two-decade-long marriage.
The dynamics of a crumbling marriage
A stark contrast to the explosive relationships depicted in his earlier films, Is This Thing On? delves into a more subdued and painful split. The protagonist, Alex Novak, portrayed by Arnett, embraces humor as a coping mechanism, venturing into the world of stand-up comedy to express his feelings about his impending divorce. Yet, rather than delivering profound insights or gut-busting jokes, his attempts often fall flat, relying heavily on cliched humor.
Comedy as a coping mechanism
Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City’s comedy clubs, Alex’s journey reflects a familiar trope: the man who avoids therapy in favor of the stage. His comedic pursuits are not driven by a desire for professional success but rather by a quest for validation and attention. He hilariously shares anecdotes about his life, his wife Tess, played by Dern, and even his anatomy, in a bid to connect with his audience.
However, while Alex receives a warm welcome from the comedic community—predominantly composed of women and individuals of color—his story lacks the depth seen in similar narratives like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Unlike Midge Maisel, whose journey is about mastering her craft, Alex seems content with mediocrity, embodying a character that provokes more eye-rolls than laughter.
Character reflections and societal norms
The film’s portrayal of Alex is strikingly relatable yet frustrating. He appears disheveled and overwhelmed, embodying the archetype of a man on the brink of a midlife crisis. As the camera frequently zooms in on his face, it forces viewers to confront his emotional struggles head-on. Yet, it raises questions about his self-awareness and growth throughout the film.
Gender roles and character arcs
As the narrative unfolds, Alex attempts to take ownership of his past failings, particularly in his role as a father to their two young sons. However, his actions often suggest he is more of a visitor in his children’s lives than an engaged parent. The film highlights moments where he seems detached, arriving late to a birthday party without a gift, reinforcing the sense of his emotional absence.
Cooper’s portrayal of Alex’s friend, Balls, provides a contrasting perspective. Balls, a character who embodies chaotic optimism, revels in his mediocrity as an understudy. His jovial personality contrasts sharply with Alex’s self-deprecating humor, delivering a refreshing take on happiness that does not hinge on societal definitions of success.
While Christine Ebersole shines as Alex’s overbearing mother, infusing humor into her limited screen time, Laura Dern’s Tess carries much of the film’s emotional weight. Throughout the film, her character oscillates between compassion and frustration, hinting at the complexities of their relationship. Yet, the film often sidelines her character development, leaving her emotional breakthroughs to occur outside the primary narrative.
Final reflections on the film
Ultimately, Is This Thing On? paints a portrait of a man who struggles with his own mediocrity, leaving viewers questioning whether they should empathize with Alex or simply observe his shortcomings. While the film sidesteps the familiar tropes of bitter divorce stories, it does not fully escape the entrapments of outdated gender norms. The supporting cast, including real-life comedians and former athletes, adds a layer of authenticity to the film, yet they cannot compensate for its shortcomings.
As the credits roll, audiences may find themselves neither rooting for reconciliation nor total separation for Alex and Tess, but rather hoping for a resolution that brings closure to their story. The film, while occasionally humorous, ultimately feels like a reflection of its protagonist—unremarkable and forgettable.
