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Bradley Cooper’s Is This Thing On: A New York Film Festival Must-See

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Jul 26, 2025
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There's a real buzz building around Bradley Cooper's Is This Thing On, and for very good reason. This film, his third time directing a feature, is about to make a significant splash. It’s been chosen as the closing night selection for the 63rd New York Film Festival, which, you know, is a pretty big deal. This choice really puts the movie in the spotlight, making it one of the most talked-about events of the festival this year. People are, in a way, quite eager to see what Cooper has created this time around.

This particular selection for the closing night is, in some respects, quite special for the New York Film Festival. It’s not every year that a world premiere gets such a prominent spot. The last time something like this happened was back in 2021 with Joel Coen's "The Tragedy of Macbeth." So, this really shows the confidence the festival has in Cooper’s latest work. It’s a moment that, you know, captures the attention of film lovers and industry folks alike.

So, what exactly is this film all about, and why is everyone talking about it? We’re going to take a closer look at "Is This Thing On?", its place at the festival, the people involved, and what you can expect from this dramatic comedy. It’s a film that, apparently, promises many surprises and a lot of heart, especially for fans of New York City.

Table of Contents

Bradley Cooper: A Brief Look at His Creative Journey

Bradley Cooper, a name many people recognize, has certainly made a big mark in the world of movies. He’s been in many films, showing his acting skill in a lot of different kinds of roles. From intense dramas to lighter fare, he’s, you know, really shown his range over the years. This new film, "Is This Thing On?", marks another step in his creative path, especially as a director.

Bradley Cooper: Key Details
RoleActor, Director, Producer
Notable Directorial Works"A Star Is Born," "Maestro," "Is This Thing On?"
Genre (New Film)Dramatic Comedy, Relationship Drama
Upcoming PremiereOctober 10, 2024, New York Film Festival

Early Career and Acting Prowess

Early in his career, Bradley Cooper built a strong reputation as an actor. He appeared in various projects, gradually taking on more challenging parts. His performances often received a lot of good feedback, and he became a familiar face to audiences. He showed a knack for connecting with characters, which, you know, made his work quite compelling to watch.

Stepping Behind the Camera

Not content with just acting, Cooper eventually moved into directing. His first directorial effort, "A Star Is Born," was a massive success, both with critics and at the box office. It showed he had a real talent for telling stories from a director's chair. Following that, he directed "Maestro," which also got a lot of attention. Now, with "Is This Thing On?", he’s, like, trying something a little different, moving into a more comedic space while still keeping that dramatic depth.

"Is This Thing On?": Unpacking the Buzz at NYFF

The selection of Bradley Cooper's Is This Thing On as the closing night film for the 63rd New York Film Festival has created a significant stir. This isn't just any film; it's a dramatic comedy that, apparently, promises to explore human connections and life's unexpected turns. The festival’s choice highlights the film's perceived quality and its potential to resonate deeply with audiences. It's, you know, a big moment for the movie and for Cooper as a filmmaker.

The New York Film Festival's Coveted Closing Spot

Being the closing night film at the New York Film Festival is a really special honor. It means the festival organizers believe this movie will leave a lasting impression as the event wraps up. The film will have its world premiere on October 10 at Lincoln Center, specifically at Alice Tully Hall. This venue is, you know, a very well-known spot for film events in New York. The festival's announcement, following its opening night and centerpiece selections, completed its trio of major gala events.

What's the Story? A Glimpse into the Plot

"Is This Thing On?" is described as a dramatic comedy, and also a relationship drama. The story, as the cinemaholic can reveal, centers on two former partners, Alex and Tess. As their marriage falls apart, Alex faces middle age and divorce, seeking new purpose in New York City. The film is said to be full of different layers and surprises, exploring the complexities of human relationships. It’s, in a way, a very personal look at life changes.

The Stellar Ensemble Cast

One of the most exciting things about "Is This Thing On?" is its truly impressive cast. Bradley Cooper himself is in the film, which is always a draw. He’s joined by Will Arnett and Laura Dern, two actors known for their strong performances. The cast also includes Ciaran Hinds, Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, NFL quarterback Peyton Manning, and Sean Hayes. That’s, like, a really diverse group of talent, promising a lot of interesting interactions on screen.

Cooper's Vision: From Drama to Dramatic Comedy

Bradley Cooper is celebrated for his intense work in films like "A Star Is Born" and "Maestro," which were both quite serious dramas. With "Is This Thing On?", he's moving into a somewhat lighter area, a dramatic comedy. This shift shows his range as a director and his willingness to explore different kinds of stories. It's his third feature film as a director, and it seems he’s, you know, really finding his voice behind the camera. This movie is a film of many dimensions, apparently, offering both laughter and thought-provoking moments.

Why "Is This Thing On?" Matters for Film Fans

The arrival of "Is This Thing On?" at the New York Film Festival is a big moment for many reasons. It's not just another movie premiere; it represents a significant step for Bradley Cooper as a filmmaker. For those who follow film festivals and new releases, this movie, you know, definitely stands out as something special to watch for. It brings together a lot of talent, both in front of and behind the camera.

A Fond Tribute to New York City's Spirit

The film is also described as a fond tribute to New York City. This aspect will likely resonate with anyone who loves the city, or has experienced its unique energy. The story, which sees a character seeking new purpose in New York, probably uses the city as more than just a backdrop. It might, you know, feel like a character itself, adding another layer to the narrative. This connection to the city makes the New York premiere even more fitting.

The Festival's Unique Choice

The New York Film Festival’s decision to make "Is This Thing On?" its closing night film speaks volumes. It suggests the movie has a particular quality that makes it a perfect way to end the festival. It’s a choice that, you know, generates excitement and anticipation. This film, with its blend of drama and comedy, appears to offer something fresh and engaging for audiences, wrapping up the festival with a memorable experience.

People Also Ask About "Is This Thing On?"

Q: What is "Is This Thing On?" about?

A: "Is This Thing On?" is a dramatic comedy and relationship drama. It centers on Alex and Tess, two former partners. The story explores Alex's journey as he faces middle age and divorce, seeking new purpose in New York City. It’s, you know, a film that has many dimensions and surprises, offering a look at life changes and relationships.

Q: Who is in the cast of "Is This Thing On?"

A: The film features a really strong ensemble cast. Bradley Cooper himself is in it, alongside Will Arnett and Laura Dern. Other notable actors include Ciaran Hinds, Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, NFL quarterback Peyton Manning, and Sean Hayes. It’s, like, a very talented group of people bringing the story to life.

Q: When and where will "Is This Thing On?" premiere?

A: "Is This Thing On?" will have its world premiere as the closing night film of the 63rd New York Film Festival. It will screen on October 10 at Lincoln Center, specifically at Alice Tully Hall. This event, you know, marks its first public showing.

So, get ready to experience Bradley Cooper's Is This Thing On. It promises to be a memorable cinematic event at the New York Film Festival, offering a blend of humor and heartfelt moments. This film, you know, could be one to watch for, especially if you enjoy stories about personal growth and the journey of life.

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