Toronto’s Own Will Arnett Prepares for His Ultimate Mic-Drop Moment
Will Arnett, a celebrated Canadian actor, is making waves with his new film, Is This Thing On? The film, which premiered in Toronto, showcases his transition from comedic roles to a lead dramatic performance.
About the Film
Is This Thing On? tells the compelling story of a family man navigating the complexities of divorce. Arnett plays the lead role, grappling with personal challenges while turning to stand-up comedy for solace. The film is directed by his long-time friend, Bradley Cooper, and Arnett co-wrote the script.
Plot Overview
- Main Character: A family man facing divorce.
- Cast: Will Arnett, Laura Dern, and Bradley Cooper.
- Setting: The backdrop includes Manhattan’s vibrant comedy scene.
- Inspiration: Loosely based on the life of comedian John Bishop.
Arnett’s Journey
Originally trained as a dramatic actor, Arnett reflects on his journey. “Life just kind of happened,” he admits, expressing surprise at finally landing a pivotal dramatic role at the age of 54. He acknowledges that dreams can shift over the years, highlighting the unpredictability of life.
This shift has shaped the film’s narrative. Under Cooper’s direction, the focus remains grounded, emphasizing the protagonist’s personal growth rather than a classic rise to fame in the comedy world. Arnett notes that the essence of the story lies in self-discovery rather than achieving comedic stardom.
Friendship Behind the Scenes
Arnett and Cooper’s long-standing friendship enhances their on-screen chemistry. Both actors brought their unique dynamic to the film. While they worked closely together, they didn’t rehearse extensively, allowing natural interactions to unfold during filming.
Preparation for Stand-Up Scenes
In preparation for the film, Arnett immersed himself in the stand-up comedy world. He performed at clubs multiple times a week, mirroring his character’s journey. This rigorous process was akin to the practices seen in other notable films, such as Funny People.
Release Information
Is This Thing On? is set to open in Toronto on December 19, followed by a wider release across Canada starting on January 9.
Will Arnett’s latest work represents a new chapter in his career, showcasing his range as an actor and his ability to tackle profound themes through comedy. As he prepares for this significant ‘mic-drop moment’, audiences eagerly await his performance in this dramatic role.
