At the age of 50, Bradley Cooper chose an unconventional birthday celebration: a table-read workshop for his upcoming film, an indie dramedy titled 'Is This Thing On?'. This project, centered on a middle-aged couple navigating divorce, quickly drew in actors Laura Dern and Will Arnett. The initial concept, inspired by comedian John Bishop's personal experience of channeling divorce into stand-up, was brought to Cooper by Arnett. Despite being immersed in the production of 'Maestro,' Cooper was captivated by the idea and eager to collaborate, marking another chapter in his enduring friendship with Arnett, which began decades ago in a Manhattan cafe and solidified through shared living experiences in Los Angeles.
As the film progressed, Cooper emphasized the importance of a close-knit creative team, enlisting longtime collaborators and friends like Weston Middleton as producer and Matthew Libatique as director of photography. A pivotal shift in the narrative occurred when Cooper decided to elevate the wife's role, making the couple's relationship the emotional core rather than solely focusing on stand-up comedy. Laura Dern, who readily joined the project, meticulously developed her character, an ex-Olympic volleyball player grappling with identity within marriage and motherhood. Meanwhile, Arnett immersed himself in the world of stand-up, performing at various venues, including the renowned Comedy Cellar, to authentically portray his character's journey.
The production, initially envisioned as a modest project, expanded significantly to enhance its emotional resonance. Filming across iconic New York City locations, including the Comedy Cellar and Grand Central Station, added a grander scale to the intimate narrative. Cooper's hands-on approach extended to joining the cinematographers union and personally filming a substantial portion of the movie. This immersive technique, combined with filming the most challenging scenes early in the production, fostered a dynamic and authentic environment for the actors. The film's musical heart, initially conceived with 'Don't Stop Believin',' found its true rhythm in Queen and David Bowie's 'Under Pressure,' a song that perfectly encapsulates the film's theme of hope amidst the enduring pressures of a relationship, reflecting Cooper's vision of an ending that is both compelling and realistically nuanced.
The collaborative spirit and dedication to authenticity demonstrated by the cast and crew of 'Is This Thing On?' offer a powerful reminder that genuine connection and shared vision can elevate any creative endeavor. By embracing personal narratives and tackling complex emotional themes with sincerity, art can provide profound insights into the human experience, leaving audiences with a sense of hope and understanding even in the face of life's challenges.