Trailer For Bradley Cooper-Directed Divorce Comedy IS THIS THING ON? with Will Arnett and Laura Dern

Searchlight Pictures has released the first trailer for Is This Thing On?, a heartfelt comedy from director Bradley Cooper that follows a man’s attempt to reinvent himself after divorce by becoming a stand-up comedian.

The film stars Will Arnett as Alex, a newly single father of two who throws himself into the unpredictable world of New York City stand-up. Inspired by the life of British comedian John Bishop, the story explores the messy, hilarious, and sometimes painful aftermath of a breakup, with Laura Dern playing his ex-wife.

The supporting cast includes Andra Day, Sean Hayes, Christine Ebersole, Ciarán Hinds, Peyton Manning, and Amy Sedaris. Cooper also appears in the film and co-wrote the script with Mark Chappell and Arnett. Cooper produced through his Lea Pictures banner alongside Weston Middleton, Arnett, and Kris Thykier.

Is This Thing On? will premiere as the closing night selection of the New York Film Festival on October 10 at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall.

Cooper said, “We are honored and humbled to premiere our film at the New York Film Festival. Earlier this year, we had the wonderful opportunity to shoot this story all throughout the city, so it’s very exciting to debut it on the closing evening of the festival. NYC injects an energy into every aspect of filmmaking that just can’t be replicated.”

This marks Cooper’s third time behind the camera following A Star Is Born and Maestro. He’s also known for acclaimed roles in Silver Linings Playbook, American Sniper, and American Hustle.

With its personal roots, strong cast, and a unique spin on post-divorce reinvention, Is This Thing On? looks like an interesting, fun, and heartfelt flick.