Exploring Healing Through Laughter: A Review of ‘Is This Thing On?’ Featuring Will Arnett

In the film 'Is This Thing On?', Will Arnett delivers a heartfelt performance as Alex Novak, a suburban father navigating a crumbling marriage. The story unfolds with a pair of kids' socks and mini-toothbrushes, simple items that evoke profound emotional pain amidst the debris of their relationship.

Directed by Bradley Cooper, this film explores the nuances of a failing marriage, showcasing how small moments can trigger deep feelings. Arnett plays Alex, a finance worker, while Laura Dern portrays his wife, Tess, a former Olympic volleyball player. Their relationship's decline is evident from the start, as they amicably decide to part ways.

Without revealing their struggles to friends, Alex and Tess host a final dinner party, which is disrupted by Alex’s comedic aspirations. He finds himself at an open mic night, a place that symbolizes his unexpected journey into stand-up comedy—an act that serves as his form of therapy. As he steps up to the mic, Alex candidly admits, "I think I'm getting a divorce," eliciting both awkward laughter and empathy from the audience.

The film draws inspiration from the real-life story of Joseph Bishop, who turned to stand-up comedy during his own breakup. Alex's return to the mic becomes a recurring theme, highlighting the sadness of separation and the healing power of humor.

Cooper's direction allows both Arnett and Dern to shine, capturing the rawness of their characters' experiences without forced drama. Through everyday moments—like folding laundry or spotting children's toothbrushes—emotions surface unexpectedly, revealing the fragility of their bond.

As Alex grapples with his new life, Tess witnesses his comedic journey, leading to a mix of emotions ranging from shock to reluctant admiration. The film expertly balances humor and poignancy, making the audience empathize with both characters as they navigate their relationship's complexities.

Ultimately, 'Is This Thing On?' presents a realistic portrayal of love, loss, and the messy process of healing. The film invites viewers to reflect on the nature of relationships, showcasing how laughter can sometimes be the best medicine. With a runtime of 120 minutes, this Searchlight Pictures release is rated R for language, sexual references, and some drug use. It earns a solid three stars out of four.