(Image Source: Vanity Fair)
Bradley Cooper's third self-written, produced, directed, and starring film, "Is This Thing On?", follows his critically acclaimed "A Star Is Born" and "Maestro". Vanity Fair recently unveiled the first-look stills and behind-the-scenes photos, along with initial plot details. The highly anticipated first trailer has now also been released.
The film centers on Alex, a middle-aged man whose marriage is on the brink, as he attempts to find new purpose in the New York comedy scene. Simultaneously, his wife Tess grapples with her own past, and the couple is forced to navigate the complexities of co-parenting and identity.
Watch the first trailer below: ▼
(Image Source: Vanity Fair)
Notably, Cooper is not the lead in "Is This Thing On?". That role goes to comedian Will Arnett, known for voicing "Lego Batman" in "The Lego Movie" franchise. Cooper appears in a supporting capacity. The ensemble cast also includes Ciarán Hinds, Sean Hayes, singer Andra Day, Tony Award winner Christine Ebersole, and Laura Dern as Tess. The film is slated for a December 19 release in North America.
(Image Source: Vanity Fair)
Cooper told Vanity Fair that "Is This Thing On?" was inspired by a story shared by British comedian John Bishop. Cooper met Bishop at a social event years ago, where Bishop recounted how he stumbled into stand-up comedy after his divorce. Deeply inspired, Cooper convinced Bishop to let him use his life experience as the blueprint for "Is This Thing On?". Mark Chappell, writer of "See How They Run", co-wrote the script.
(Image Source: Vanity Fair)
However, "Is This Thing On?" isn't a story about achieving fame, but rather about an ordinary person discovering themselves through stand-up comedy. Cooper clarified, "This isn't a midlife crisis movie, it's a midlife catharsis movie." In addition to his roles as writer, director, producer, and actor, Cooper also served as cinematographer on this project, personally operating the camera for much of the filming. Laura Dern commented on this, stating, "It's rare for a director to know exactly what they want and need, and to be able to whisper notes in your ear while shooting."
via： Vanity Fair