Bradley Cooper and Will Arnett Team Up for Personal Comedy 'Is This Thing On?'

The film, inspired by British comedian John Bishop's life, signals a shift towards more authentic, character-driven stories in Hollywood.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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Bradley Cooper's latest directorial effort, 'Is This Thing On?', is a comedy inspired by the life of British comedian John Bishop. The film signals a growing trend in Hollywood towards more personal, relatable stories that move away from blockbuster spectacle. Filmmakers are increasingly finding success by exploring the nuances of everyday life, often drawing directly from real-life experiences. This shift aligns with the rise of confessional comedy and the impact of streaming services, which provide a space for smaller, character-driven films.

Why it matters

The success of films like 'A Star Is Born', 'Bohemian Rhapsody', and 'Rocketman' has proven that audiences are hungry for stories about real people facing relatable challenges. 'Is This Thing On?' takes this a step further by using a comedian's life as source material, tapping into the vulnerability and emotional resonance of stand-up comedy. This trend reflects a broader shift in audience preferences towards authenticity and emotional connection in cinema.

The details

While 'Is This Thing On?' is inspired by the life of British comedian John Bishop, it is not a strict biographical retelling. This subtle distinction allows for greater creative license while retaining the emotional core of a true story. The choice of a comedian's life as source material is particularly insightful, as comedy often arises from pain, observation, and a willingness to be vulnerable. Will Arnett's portrayal of the fictionalized character is expected to tap into this vulnerability.

  • The film 'Is This Thing On?' is set to be released in 2026.

The players

Bradley Cooper

An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter who is directing 'Is This Thing On?'.

Will Arnett

An American actor and comedian who is starring in 'Is This Thing On?'.

John Bishop

A British comedian whose life story inspired the film 'Is This Thing On?'.

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What’s next

The film 'Is This Thing On?' is expected to generate significant buzz in the lead-up to its 2026 release, as audiences and critics alike anticipate the latest collaboration between Bradley Cooper and Will Arnett.

The takeaway

The success of 'Is This Thing On?' and films like it suggests a future where personal storytelling becomes a dominant force in cinema. Audiences are increasingly craving authentic, emotionally resonant stories that reflect their own experiences, and filmmakers who can tap into this demand are likely to find critical and commercial success.