Is This Thing On? (2025)

Is This Thing On?

• We need Will Arnett in more serious roles. Not that he was totally stone faced in this, because he has his fair share of comedic bits. But man, he really drives this thing as a deep comedy. By deep, I mean how much emotion it has. It’s one of the better dramedies that’s emerged in the last couple years. It also shows that Bradley Cooper continues to make some great films. The three big things drawing me into this were the fact Cooper directed this, Will Arnett, and my favorite actress ever (as of now), Lauren Dern. While the story isn’t anything too complex, and nothing revolutionary, it’s still a simple reminder about the way relationships can potentially work out, and how we can cope with those situations. Although I have zero relationship experience (and in that case, marriage also), I feel like I resonated with so much of this, especially with Arnett’s character. You really get a chance to see into his mind from different perspectives. Same for Dern. Not as much as Arnett, but you still get a scope of what’s happening between them, and why. It’s kind of hard to explain past that. But their dynamic felt so realistic, especially how it pulls from every day events that many people experience. The writing was pretty sharp, both with the comedy club moments and the vulnerable ones between Arnett and Dern. Again, it’s not overdone, but it’s enough to really get into your heart and make you think. The entire cast was fantastic, with exceptional performances from Arnett and Dern. I love how Cooper inserts himself and steals the spotlight a couple times (I brought bagels!). And THAT cameo? I wasn’t ready at all, but man, I sure enjoyed it. Lastly, the final scene…..my eyes were swimming with tears. I thought the use of “Under Pressure” was beautiful, and especially with the context of the scene, it just hit so hard. Overall, this is a hilarious yet serious film (when it needs to be) that is down to earth and authentic, and you can’t help but feel some connection to it. It’s nothing insanely good, but I would certainly recommend it to everyone. More Bradley Cooper directed films please (and get Will Arnett into more serious roles!). This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!