Will Arnett: From Arrested Development to Dramatic Roles & Stand-Up Comedy

Will Arnett, known for his comedic timing in shows like “Arrested Development” and as the voice of Lego Batman, is stepping into more dramatic territory with “Is This Thing On?”, directed by Bradley Cooper. The film, inspired by the life of British comedian John Bishop, marks a significant shift for the actor, who admits he once believed such a role was beyond his reach.

The film centers on Alex Novak, a man navigating a divorce and a midlife crisis who unexpectedly finds himself on stage at a comedy club. Arnett described the experience of preparing for the role as a form of catharsis, noting that the character uses stand-up as a way to understand his feelings and reconnect with himself. “Sometimes in life you play the hand you’re dealt a little bit,” Arnett told USA Today. He explained that he never actively pursued a comedic career, but rather found himself in that space after early success with “Arrested Development.”

“Is This Thing On?” delves into the complexities of separation, co-parenting, and the evolving nature of love. Laura Dern co-stars as Tess, Alex’s wife, portraying a woman grappling with the sacrifices she’s made for her family. Arnett spoke highly of Dern, calling her “incredible” and emphasizing the importance of her presence in the film. “She brings so much life to every character,” he said, adding that her involvement elevated the project significantly.

Cooper’s directorial approach was also key to the film’s success. Arnett, a longtime friend of the director, praised Cooper’s ability to elevate the material and delve deeper into the emotional core of the story. “Bradley is an incredible filmmaker,” Arnett stated in an interview with Spanish publication El País. “He knew the key was to show how my character uses stand-up to understand what he feels, to reconnect with himself, and finally, to see his relationship in a different way.”

The film’s genesis in the real-life experiences of John Bishop added another layer of authenticity. Arnett explained that the team was careful to honor Bishop’s story while also crafting a compelling narrative. The process involved understanding the emotional truth behind the comedy and exploring how stand-up could serve as a vehicle for self-discovery.

Arnett’s own foray into stand-up as preparation for the role proved to be a transformative experience. He recounted performing an open mic set in New York City, describing it as both terrifying, and liberating. “I was printing out some old jokes that we didn’t use in the movie and decided to just go for it,” he said. “It was very fun and very difficult. I have a lot of respect for what comedians do.”

While Arnett is widely recognized for his voice work in animated films like “Ratatouille” and the “Lego Movie” franchise, particularly as Batman, he acknowledges that the character remains his most recognizable role with fans. He expressed gratitude for the positive reception of the character and the joy it brings to audiences.

Arnett’s journey into voice acting began somewhat serendipitously. He credits early projects like “Ice Age 2: The Meltdown” with opening doors to a world of animated storytelling. He highlighted the collaborative nature of the process and the opportunity to bring characters to life through voice performance. He also mentioned his involvement in the critically acclaimed animated series “BoJack Horseman,” expressing pride in the show’s dark humor and emotional depth.

Looking ahead, Arnett remains open to exploring new creative avenues, including potentially incorporating more stand-up into his repertoire. He shared a list of comedians he admires, including Shane Gillis, Bill Burr, and Dave Chappelle, as well as Ricky Gervais and rising stars Jordan Jensen and Chloe Radcliffe. He also expressed a desire to continue challenging himself as an actor and seeking out roles that push him beyond his comfort zone.

“Is This Thing On?” represents a turning point in Arnett’s career, showcasing his versatility and willingness to embrace dramatic challenges. The film’s exploration of divorce, identity, and the search for meaning resonates with universal themes, offering audiences a poignant and often humorous reflection on the complexities of modern life. Arnett’s performance, coupled with Cooper’s sensitive direction and Dern’s compelling portrayal, makes “Is This Thing On?” a noteworthy addition to the landscape of contemporary cinema.