Bradley Cooper's Unexpected Biopic Finds Humour in John Bishop's True Story
In one of the most surprising cinematic collaborations of recent years, Hollywood heavyweights Bradley Cooper and Will Arnett have drawn inspiration from the remarkable true story of Liverpudlian comedian John Bishop. The resulting film, Is This Thing On?, transforms personal tragedy into a polished, character-driven comedy that resonates with authenticity and heart.
An Unlikely Source of Inspiration
The film takes its premise from Bishop's own career beginnings, though it cleverly relocates the action from Liverpool to New York. This strategic move avoids any awkward attempts at regional British accents, allowing the universal themes of mid-life crisis and self-discovery to take centre stage. Produced by Kris Thykier, husband of Claudia Winkleman, the project represents a fascinating cross-Atlantic creative exchange.
A Story of Unexpected Reinvention
Will Arnett delivers a career-best performance as Alex Novak, a finance professional who, after twenty years of marriage, agrees with his wife Tess (Laura Dern) to end their relationship. The initial sadness of their separation takes an unexpected turn when Alex, under the influence of a cannabis-laced cookie, stumbles into a comedy club. Faced with a $15 cover charge, he makes the impulsive decision to perform on stage instead of paying entry.
What follows could easily have been a cringe-inducing disaster, but co-writers Cooper, Arnett, and Mark Chappell instead craft a nuanced exploration of how humour can emerge from personal pain. Alex's honest monologue about his impending divorce gradually transforms into genuine comedy as he processes his emotions at the microphone, uninhibited by his earlier indulgence.
Balancing Life's Complexities
The film excels in portraying Alex's dual life as he juggles school pick-ups with Tess, explains their separation to their two sons, and deals with a mother (Christine Ebersole) who maintains daily phone contact with his ex-wife. Throughout this turmoil, comedy becomes his secret sanctuary—a hobby that unexpectedly revitalises his perspective on life.
Laura Dern initially appears confined to the estranged wife archetype, but the revelation of Alex's secret comedy career allows her character to shine through perfectly executed facial expressions and emotional depth. The film handles this pivotal moment with sensitivity, avoiding melodrama while delivering genuine emotional impact.
Supporting Characters and Creative Choices
Bradley Cooper, while not taking a lead role in his directorial effort, steals several scenes as Alex's friend Balls—a jobbing actor whose facial hair changes with every audition. Cooper's impeccable comic timing elevates even mundane exchanges, particularly in a memorable scene about a photograph.
The supporting cast, including Andra Day as Balls' long-suffering wife Christine, Ciarán Hinds, Sean Hayes, Amy Sedaris, and Peyton Manning, creates a believable social circle that reflects the complexities of maintaining friendships through marital breakdown.
A Departure for Cooper and Arnett
This film represents significant artistic evolution for both main collaborators. For Cooper, it demonstrates his ability to handle intimate, personal stories with the same aplomb he brought to grander projects like A Star Is Born and Maestro. For Arnett, it showcases emotional range and depth previously unexplored in his work on Arrested Development or The Lego Movie franchise.
Technical Details and Release Information
Director: Bradley Cooper
Writers: Will Arnett, Bradley Cooper & Mark Chappell, based on a story by Will Arnett, John Bishop & Mark Chappell
Cast: Will Arnett, Laura Dern, Bradley Cooper, Andra Day, Ciarán Hinds, Christine Ebersole, Sean Hayes, Amy Sedaris, Peyton Manning
Age Rating: 15
Runtime: 2 hours 4 minutes
Release: After premiering in US cinemas on December 19, the film arrives in UK theatres on January 30, 2026
Final Verdict
Is This Thing On? successfully mines the rich comedic potential of personal tragedy without ever becoming maudlin or excessive. The unexpected team-up between Cooper, Arnett, and Bishop's real-life story produces a film that is simultaneously polished, funny, and poignant. It stands as a testament to how the most challenging life transitions can unexpectedly become sources of creativity and renewal. The film's clever nod to Bishop's origins adds an extra layer of appreciation for those familiar with the comedian's journey, while remaining completely accessible to wider audiences.
This refined comedy about the best kind of mid-life crisis demonstrates how artistic inspiration can emerge from the most unlikely places, resulting in a film that balances humour and heart with remarkable skill.
