Bradley Cooper’s latest directorial project, Is This Thing On?, has been chosen as the closing night film of the 2025 New York Film Festival (NYFF). Starring Cooper’s longtime friend Will Arnett alongside Laura Dern, the film has been described as a heartfelt exploration of midlife, creative rediscovery, and emotional honesty.
The festival’s decision to close with Cooper’s film marks both a creative milestone and a statement about modern storytelling—one that blends humor, vulnerability, and deeply personal themes.
A Festival Highlight and Creative Collaboration
Now in its 63rd year, the New York Film Festival runs from September 26 through October 13, 2025. Each year, the festival’s closing night slot is reserved for a standout project—one that leaves a lasting impression on both audiences and critics. This year, that honor belongs to Is This Thing On?, co-written by Bradley Cooper and Will Arnett.
The film stars Arnett as Alex, a middle-aged man facing personal upheaval and creative restlessness. Laura Dern co-stars as Tess, his ex-partner, as the two navigate separation, shared parenting, and rediscovering purpose. Andra Day and Christine Ebersole round out the ensemble cast.
At its NYFF debut, Cooper praised Arnett for an emotionally raw performance that reveals a more serious and introspective side of the actor best known for comedy. The director described their creative process as “a shared act of truth-telling,” saying the film “grew from conversations about real life, real loss, and how laughter saves you.”
Behind the Scenes: Real Moments, Real Inspiration
Bradley Cooper’s creative approach to Is This Thing On? is deeply personal. The film draws inspiration from his own life experiences, particularly moments of change and self-reflection. Cooper said he wanted the film to feel “lived in,” not staged, and that many of its moments came directly from everyday observations.
One such example is the movie’s opening sequence—a colorful lion dance during a Chinese New Year celebration. Cooper said the idea came from attending a similar event at his daughter’s school, where he was struck by its energy and symbolism. That moment sparked the film’s tone: a mix of joy, chaos, and rediscovery.
Even Cooper’s own pets, his dogs Charlie and Lucy, appear in the movie. The choice, he explained, was intentional—meant to ground the film in authenticity and emotional familiarity.
A Different Kind of Midlife Story
Unlike traditional stories about midlife crises, Is This Thing On? takes a more introspective and humorous path. Will Arnett’s character doesn’t chase youth or success; instead, he turns to stand-up comedy as a form of healing and self-expression.
The script balances Arnett’s comedic instincts with Cooper’s cinematic sensitivity, creating a tone that’s both sharp and deeply emotional. Laura Dern’s role as Tess offers balance and depth, portraying a woman rediscovering herself while maintaining empathy for her ex-partner’s journey.
Critics who attended early screenings have described the film as “funny, tender, and surprisingly honest,” noting that it captures the awkward beauty of trying to start over when life feels settled.
A Moment of Vulnerability and Trust
During the NYFF post-screening Q&A, Cooper shared that Arnett initially hesitated to take the role because of its vulnerability. But their long friendship helped build trust, allowing Arnett to dive into the emotional core of the story.
Cooper praised Arnett’s openness on set, saying, “He gave more of himself than I could have imagined. The best acting comes when you stop trying to perform—and that’s what Will did.”
For both artists, Is This Thing On? was a chance to break free from expectations. Arnett, best known for voice roles and comedic characters, embraced a performance that revealed new layers of sincerity. For Cooper, it was another opportunity to refine his voice as a filmmaker after A Star Is Born and Maestro.
Why NYFF’s Closing Night Matters
The New York Film Festival’s closing night slot often serves as a launchpad for major awards contenders. In recent years, films like The Irishman and White Noise have premiered in the same position, signaling prestige and confidence.
By choosing Is This Thing On?, NYFF organizers spotlight a film that’s not driven by spectacle but by emotional resonance. The decision underscores Cooper’s growing reputation as a director who prioritizes authenticity and performance over formula.
Festival director Eugene Hernandez praised Cooper’s filmmaking evolution, calling him “a storyteller unafraid to explore the spaces between laughter and pain.”
What’s Next for Is This Thing On?
Following its NYFF premiere, Is This Thing On? will open in U.S. theaters on December 19, 2025. Early buzz suggests it may become a strong contender in the upcoming awards season, with critics highlighting Arnett’s breakout dramatic performance and Cooper’s nuanced direction.
The film also represents a shift in tone for Cooper, whose previous works explored love, music, and legacy. This time, he focuses on identity, vulnerability, and creative renewal—a topic that resonates with audiences navigating similar stages of life.
Both Cooper and Arnett have said they hope viewers leave the theater feeling both moved and inspired. “It’s about finding your voice again,” Arnett said at the premiere. “No matter how many times you think you’ve lost it.”
Conclusion: A Heartfelt Finish to NYFF 2025
Is This Thing On? closes the 2025 New York Film Festival not with fireworks, but with feeling. Its mix of humor, humanity, and personal truth makes it a fitting finale for a festival known for spotlighting bold and emotionally rich films.
Bradley Cooper continues to cement his place among Hollywood’s most thoughtful filmmakers, while Will Arnett delivers a performance that may redefine his career. Together, they’ve created a story that reminds audiences that it’s never too late to start over—and to find meaning in the mess of life.
