Bradley Cooper isn't new to the movie scene, having spent an impressive quarter of a century in front of the camera. But as a film director, he seems to have a unique knack for coaxing out authentic performances that explore the dramatic interplay between the glow of the spotlight and the frosty shadows it casts. His latest opus is no exception. 'Is This Thing On?' weaves a compelling narrative illustrated by spell-binding performances from Will Arnett and Laura Dern.

Cooper's third directorial venture, an exquisitely observed film, views performing as a cathartic response to the end of a marriage. It offers a muted cinematic look at life's messy business of self-discovery, broken hearts, and finding strength from the rubble of past relationships.

Building on personal accounts from British footballer-turned-comedian John Bishop, the script, authored by Cooper with inputs from Arnett and Mark Chappell, tells the story of Tess Novak (Laura Dern) and Alex (Will Arnett) announcing their divorce in the calmest way possible - during a seemingly routine bedtime teeth-brushing. Suddenly, the specter of separation, instead of simmering in bitterness or erupting in drama, settles in a blanket of maturity and mutual respect.

Moving on with life, Arnett's character, Alex, jokingly winds up on stage trying stand-up comedy, converting the uncomfortable truth of his 26-year-long marriage ending into comedy gold. As Alex's newfound comedic career takes flight, it is paralleled by Tess rediscovering her youth's passion for volleyball, becoming a professional coach.

The film circles back to the couple's journey as they navigate life's tides, adding depth and color to their evolving characters while layering in comedic elements from the eclectic supporting cast. Cooper's direction creates an ambience where comedy and drama can coexist, resulting in a film with a beating heart at its core that's all about the indomitable spirit of love.

Emphasizing how life imitates art and vice versa, 'Is This Thing On?' paints an intimate portrait of Alex and Tess's changing relationship mirrored aptly by their close circle of friends. Packed with moments that are as poignant as they are comic, the film tactfully avoids drowning viewers in marital woes. Instead, it offers a charming exploration of individual resilience and the unpredictable journey of reestablishing one's identity.

In true Cooper fashion, the movie feels genuine and flows organically without forcing situations or adding unnecessary frills. Cooper, instead of hogging the limelight, delivers a deeply interactive performance that cements the intricate narrative together.

The heart and soul of the film, however, resides in the strong, versatile performances of Arnett and Dern. Their synergy transforms into a moving performance portrayal that shines even amid an ensemble of heavy hitters. Arnett's comedic chops shine through, adding a hint of laughter to almost every scene. Yet, it's in his portrayal of a man navigating the wreckage of a romantic union, discovering new sides to himself, and grappling with old demons that the actor delivers an emotional knockout.

Despite the inevitable parallels drawn with Noah Baumbach's 'Marriage Story,' Bradley Cooper's 'Is This Thing On?' manages to carve a niche of its own. The movie adopts a uniquely optimistic perspective that concludes the film on a high note with a joyful rendition of the Queen-David Bowie collaboration, 'Under Pressure,' illustrating Tess and Alex's roller coaster journey with equal parts heartache and jubilation.