Bradley Cooper, Director of 'A Star Is Born,' Delivers a Passionate Masterpiece: 'Is This Thing On?' – A Story of Adult Rebirth – Blu-ray + DVD Set Release on August 26, 2026!

Ahead lies a 'new form of love.'

Following 'A Star Is Born' (2018) and 'Maestro' (2023), Bradley Cooper's latest directorial, writing, producing, and acting endeavor, 'Is This Thing On?', will be released on Blu-ray + DVD set on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

This marks Cooper's third directorial feature, acclaimed not only as a top actor but also as a director. Based on a friend's real-life story, the film portrays the struggles and rebirth of adults at a crossroads in life. Set in New York, it follows a couple facing marital crisis as they confront their ideals and values, taking new steps forward with humor and warmth—an encouraging message for adults living today.

The protagonists, Alex and Tess, once enjoyed a smooth marriage blessed with two children. But as they enter middle age, they confront long-held dreams and unresolved feelings, leading to major changes in their relationship. Amid despair, Alex stumbles into the world of stand-up comedy and discovers a new sense of purpose. Meanwhile, Tess reevaluates her past and future, searching for a way of life true to herself. The film carefully portrays the pain and confusion unique to long-married couples, as well as the hope that lies ahead. A stellar cast led by Will Arnett and Academy Award® winner Laura Dern delivers a nuanced, authentic ensemble performance that adds depth to the story.

The Blu-ray + DVD set and digital purchase version include behind-the-scenes making-of footage—a must-see for fans. Experience Bradley Cooper's new-age anthem for modern adults, 'Is This Thing On?', set against the real streets of New York, now on Blu-ray + DVD, or via digital purchase and rental.

STORY

Alex and Tess, a couple living in the New York suburbs, seemingly had a stable life with two children. But as they reach midlife, career crossroads and abandoned dreams threaten to end their marriage. In despair, Alex steps onto the stage of a comedy club late one night in New York. Turning failures, sorrows, and even their marriage into 'laughter,' he finds a new purpose. One night, Tess appears in the audience—

STAFF & CAST

<Staff>

Director: Bradley Cooper

Screenplay: Bradley Cooper, Will Arnett, Mark Chappell

Story: Will Arnett, Mark Chappell, John Bishop

Producers: Bradley Cooper, Weston Middleston, Chris Cienciala, Will Arnett

Director of Photography: Matthew Libatique, ASC

Production Designer: Kevin Thompson

Editor: Charlie Green

Music: James Newton Howard

Costume Designer: Gary Jones

Casting: Shayna Markowitz

<Cast>

Alex Novak: Will Arnett

Tess Novak: Laura Dern

Christine: Andra Day

Balls: Bradley Cooper

CHARACTER

[Alex] Will Arnett

A regular father of two in the New York suburbs who, amid a divorce crisis, unexpectedly dives into the world of stand-up comedy.

[Tess] Laura Dern

Alex’s wife, a former Olympic volleyball player. She feels emptiness in her marriage and struggles to reclaim her identity.

[Christine] Andra Day

Tess’s best friend and Balls’s wife.

[Balls] Bradley Cooper

Alex’s childhood friend and close confidant, also a working actor and Christine’s husband.

※Images used in CHARACTER section are not available for use. Thank you for your cooperation.

PRODUCTION NOTE

A Passionate Human Drama Born from a True Story

The film was inspired by a real-life story of British comedian John Bishop, heard by actor Will Arnett. Bishop, facing divorce, found healing through stand-up comedy, which deeply moved Arnett and sparked the idea to adapt it into a film. After pitching the project to Bradley Cooper, the film began to take shape. The film meticulously portrays the emotional distance built over years of marriage, the pain of losing oneself, and the journey toward renewal—carrying Cooper’s deep empathy and personal conviction.

Will Arnett’s Stand-Up Challenge: Real Stage Experience Translated into Performance

Will Arnett, portraying Alex, attended real comedy clubs in New York to perform stand-up in front of live audiences as part of his role preparation. Director Bradley Cooper believed Arnett’s boldness and sensitivity were essential to the character, so he chose a method where the actor built the role through real onstage successes and failures. Additionally, a unique rehearsal technique called 'Dreamwork,' inspired by Jungian psychology, was adopted, allowing actors to deeply explore their characters through their own dreams. This rigorous preparation grounds the film in the authentic portrayal of adults at life’s turning point.

Product Details <Release Date: August 26, 2026 (Wed)> *Subject to change

Title (Original)

Is This Thing On? (IS THIS THING ON?)

Product Name

Is This Thing On? Blu-ray + DVD Set

Price / Set

¥5,390 (tax included) / 2-disc set (1 Blu-ray, 1 DVD)

Product No. / POS Code

WDXF-1203 / 4907953238220

Copyright

© 2026 Searchlight Pictures (Please credit when using images or video.)

Bonus Content

[Blu-ray] ● Making of 'Is This Thing On?'

Distributor & Seller

Distributor: Walt Disney Japan

Distributor & Seller: Happinet Media Marketing