If you’re in the mood for a smart, grown-up comedy that understands marriage is less fairy tale and more open mic night at the Comedy Cellar, then Is This Thing On? should already be on your radar. Directed by Bradley Cooper and starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern, this 2025 comedy of remarriage has critics nodding thoughtfully while audiences quietly whisper, “Wow, that hit a little too close to home.”
So the big question everyone’s typing into Google right now is: Where to watch Is This Thing On?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Let’s break down where you can watch it right now, where it’s not streaming yet, and where it’s most likely heading next.
About This Thing On?
The comedy follows Alex and Tess Novak, a long-married couple who decide to separate amicably. As they navigate co-parenting, dating other people, and the awkwardness of still knowing each other’s coffee orders, Alex accidentally stumbles into stand-up comedy, while Tess reconnects with her passion for volleyball and Olympic ambitions.
Naturally, emotions get messy, jokes get sharper, and life – much like stand-up comedy – doesn’t always land the way you expect.
The film premiered as the closing night film at the 2025 New York Film Festival on October 10 and officially hit U.S. theaters on December 19, 2025, courtesy of Searchlight Pictures.
Is Is This Thing On? Playing in Theaters?
As of now, Is This Thing On? is exclusively available in theaters across the United States. You can check showtimes and buy tickets through major theater chains such as:
- AMC Theatres
- Regal Cinemas
- Cinemark
- Fandango (for easy ticket comparison)
Because this is a Searchlight Pictures release, it’s getting a respectable nationwide rollout rather than a blink-and-you-miss-it art-house run. If you enjoy watching relationship dramas with an audience that laughs, sighs, and occasionally shifts uncomfortably in their seats – theaters are your best bet right now.
Is the movie “Is This Thing On?” streaming on Netflix?
As of now, Is This Thing On? is not streaming on Netflix. There has been no official announcement confirming a Netflix deal, and given Searchlight Pictures’ usual distribution strategy, Netflix is not the most likely first streaming home for this film.
Could it arrive on Netflix eventually? Possibly, but don’t hold your popcorn waiting for it in the immediate future. Till that time, you can watch other comedies on Netflix as Selective Outrage, Natural Selection, etc.
Is the movie “Is This Thing On?” on Amazon Prime Video?
No, you won’t find Is This Thing On? included with Amazon Prime Video at the moment. That said, Amazon is often one of the first platforms to offer digital rentals and purchases once a theatrical window closes. So while it’s not available now, Prime Video is a strong contender for its eventual VOD release.
Is Is This Thing On? on Hulu?
No Hulu streaming availability has been announced yet. Even though Hulu does carry some Searchlight titles, Is This Thing On? has not landed there, at least not during its theatrical run. If it does arrive on Hulu, expect it months after its initial cinema release.
Is Alex Novak film on Apple TV or Digital VOD?
Currently, Is This Thing On? is not available to rent or buy digitally on Apple TV, iTunes, Google Play, or other VOD platforms.
However, based on standard release patterns, the film is very likely to become available for:
- Apple TV / iTunes (digital purchase & rental)
- Amazon Video (VOD)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
This typically happens 45–90 days after theatrical release, so early 2026 is a realistic expectation.
Is Is This Thing On? Streaming on Disney+?
Here’s where things get interesting.
Since Is This Thing On? is distributed by Searchlight Pictures, and Searchlight is owned by Disney, Disney+ is the most likely long-term streaming home for the film.
That doesn’t mean it’ll show up immediately – Disney+ usually waits until after:
- The theatrical window
- The digital/VOD phase
Once that’s done, Disney+ (often under its adult-oriented hub internationally) becomes the natural landing spot.
So if you’re asking “Where will Is This Thing On? stream eventually?” – Disney+ is your best bet.
Will Is This Thing On? Be Released on Blu-ray or DVD?
As of now, there’s no official announcement regarding a Blu-ray or DVD release.
That said, Searchlight does still release select films on physical media, especially those with strong critical reception — and with an 86% Rotten Tomatoes score, this one qualifies. Expect updates sometime after the digital release window opens.
Critical Reception: Is It Worth Watching?
Short answer: Yes, especially if you like smart, character-driven stories.
- Rotten Tomatoes: 86% (Certified Fresh energy)
- Metacritic: 73/100 (generally favorable reviews)
Critics have praised:
- Will Arnett’s surprisingly tender performance
- Laura Dern’s emotional depth and chemistry
- Bradley Cooper’s grounded, intimate direction
It’s been described as funny without being flashy, emotional without being melodramatic – basically the cinematic equivalent of a perfectly timed stand-up joke that makes you laugh and rethink your last relationship.
Final Verdict
| Platform / Format | Availability |
|---|---|
| In theaters | Yes (as of December 19, 2025) |
| Netflix | No |
| Prime Video (Digital Rent/Buy) | Not yet |
| Netflix | Not available |
| Apple TV / VOD | Not yet (expected soon) |
| Disney+ | Likely future streaming home |
| Blu-ray/DVD | Not announced |
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