If you’re always looking for something new to watch, there’s an exciting film arriving soon that blends humor, heart, and a very relatable story about life changes.
Searchlight Pictures’ Is This Thing On? will begin streaming March 20 on Hulu and on Hulu on Disney+ (for bundle subscribers in the U.S.). Directed by Academy Award®–nominated filmmaker Bradley Cooper (A Star Is Born, Maestro), this new film explores relationships, self-discovery, and how sometimes the most unexpected places can help us rediscover ourselves.
With an incredible cast and a story rooted in real-life experiences. This is one movie many viewers will want to add to their watch list.
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What Is This Thing On? Is About
Is This Thing On? follows Alex (Will Arnett), a man navigating middle age while quietly facing the reality that his marriage is falling apart. As he begins to process what life might look like after divorce, Alex unexpectedly finds himself drawn to New York’s late-night comedy clubs.
Performing stand-up comedy becomes a surprising outlet for him — a way to work through his emotions while trying to rediscover who he is outside of his role as a husband and father.
Meanwhile, Tess (Laura Dern) is also confronting her own journey. After years of putting her family first, she begins to reflect on the sacrifices she made and what the next chapter of her life might look like.
As their relationship shifts, Alex and Tess must learn how to navigate:
- Co-parenting
- Personal identity
- Letting go of the past
- And whether love can evolve into something new
The story blends humor and honesty as both characters try to move forward while redefining what family and partnership can look like.
Watch the Is This Thing On? Trailer
Curious about the tone of the film? The official trailer offers a preview of its humor and heartfelt moments.
You’ll see glimpses of Alex exploring New York’s late-night comedy clubs.
The trailer also hints at the emotional journey he faces during a major life transition.
It gives viewers a first look at the story, the characters, and the film’s unique blend of humor and heart.
Take a moment to watch the trailer below.
Will Arnett’s Unique Preparation for the Role
One detail that makes this film especially interesting is how Will Arnett prepared for the role of Alex.
To authentically portray a comedian finding his voice, Arnett spent about six weeks performing stand-up comedy in real clubs across New York, writing and testing material nearly every night. That experience helped shape the character and adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story.
Arnett also co-wrote the film alongside Bradley Cooper and Mark Chappell (See How They Run). The story itself was inspired by the life of British comedian John Bishop, whose experiences helped shape the character of Alex.
A Cast Filled With Familiar Faces
The film features an impressive ensemble cast, bringing together several well-known actors:
- Will Arnett as Alex
- Laura Dern as Tess
- Andra Day
- Bradley Cooper
- Christine Ebersole
- Ciarán Hinds
- Amy Sedaris
- Sean Hayes
- Scott Icenogle
Fans of the popular podcast SmartLess may recognize Sean Hayes alongside Arnett, making their on-screen connection even more fun to watch. Hayes’ real-life husband, Scott Icenogle, also appears in the film, adding a unique touch of authenticity to their roles.
When and Where to Watch
Is This Thing On? will begin streaming March 20 on Hulu and will also be available through Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers in the United States.
If you’re considering trying the bundle, there’s also a limited promotion available. New and eligible returning customers can subscribe to the Disney+, Hulu Bundle (with ads) for $4.99 per month for three months through March 24.
Why This Film Is Worth Watching
Stories about relationships and personal reinvention often resonate because they feel so real. Is This Thing On? explores those moments in life when everything feels uncertain — when people are trying to figure out who they are and what comes next.
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By mixing humor with emotional storytelling, the film shows how comedy can sometimes become a surprising way to process life’s biggest transitions.
With Bradley Cooper behind the camera and a talented cast bringing the story to life, this film has all the ingredients for a thoughtful and entertaining watch.
A Story About Finding Yourself Again
At its heart, Is This Thing On? is about rediscovery. It’s about navigating change, redefining relationships, and learning that sometimes the most unexpected paths can lead us toward a new beginning.
And sometimes, all it takes is stepping up to a microphone and asking the question:
“Is this thing on?”
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