The Next Best Picture Podcast "Is This Thing On?"
Dec 24, 2025
This week, the hosts dive into Bradley Cooper's latest film, exploring its charming performances by Will Arnett and Laura Dern. They praise Cooper’s restrained direction and discuss the film's mature approach to relationships over comedy. The cinematography, with its handheld, intimate feel, adds a unique tone, making it a standout. There’s also debate about whether this smaller project marks a positive shift in Cooper's directing career. The panel shares insights on the ensemble cast and the film’s awards potential.
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A Personal, Low-Key Pivot For Cooper
- Bradley Cooper made a modest, personal film with friends rather than an awards-driven project.
- The move reframes him as a director focused on intimate storytelling over grandiose ambition.
Charm Over Grandeur
- Dan Bayer found the film charming and praised its modest scale and strong performances.
- He argued the movie succeeds on its own modest terms despite not being great.
Mature Tone And Strong Leads
- Ema Sasic praised the film's mature handling of breakup and identity and liked the playful yet serious tone.
- She highlighted strong lead work from Will Arnett and Laura Dern and Cooper's effective supporting turn.