Laura Dern Reflects on Her Collaboration with Bradley Cooper in Is This Thing On?
Laura Dern recently shared insights about her experience working with Bradley Cooper on Is This Thing On?. She noted that Cooper’s dual role as director and camera operator reminded her of her early work with David Lynch. Dern said, “I’ve been lucky to have that experience firsthand, where your director becomes your partner,” highlighting a rare intimacy between actor and director.
Dern’s collaboration with Lynch spanned decades, including films like Blue Velvet and Twin Peaks: The Return. Lynch passed away shortly before production began on Is This Thing On?. Dern described that period as “a very tender, heartbreaking time,” expressing that she is still grappling with the loss.
A Year Marked by Personal and Cultural Loss
Dern’s year was shadowed by profound loss, both personally and in Los Angeles, her longtime home. Alongside Lynch’s death, she faced the passing of her mother, Diane Ladd, an Oscar-nominated actress. Dern spoke candidly about the emotional weight she carries, explaining that she has not fully processed these losses yet.
She expressed gratitude for the legacies left behind by her late mother and Lynch. “I feel really blessed by their legacies—in art, friendship, memories, and activism,” Dern remarked. She added that working on Is This Thing On? has been a blessing because it explores themes close to her heart such as intimacy, grief, and authenticity.
The Dynamic with Bradley Cooper and Co-Star Will Arnett
Dern first met Cooper about ten years ago and developed a supportive friendship. She was involved in his directing journey, attending screen tests and editing sessions for his films A Star Is Born and Maestro. For Is This Thing On?, Dern and Will Arnett, playing separated spouses, committed to vulnerability and honesty in their performances.
One standout scene, where Dern’s character silently reacts to Arnett’s character’s stand-up routine, demonstrates the film’s emotional depth. Dern explained that Cooper’s intimate filming style allowed her to discover the character’s evolving emotions in real time. She found the moment both painful and unexpectedly funny.
Industry Perspectives: The Future of Theatrical Films
Dern addressed concerns about the challenges facing “smaller, independent films” in theaters today. She argued that moviegoing is more than convenience; it’s a communal experience fostering empathy and conversation. Dern said, “That’s the church of moviegoing that I was raised on, and I just don’t ever want us to lose that.”
She expressed hope regarding the evolving film industry, especially with recent news of Netflix’s potential acquisition of Warner Bros. Dern emphasized that theaters are essential for filmmakers to create and share their work with audiences fully.
Dern’s Continued Artistic Contributions and Directing Aspirations
2025 marks one of Dern’s most active years onscreen, including roles in Jay Kelly and the Netflix romance Lonely Planet. She also recalled her Oscar win for Marriage Story and her ongoing support for streaming platforms that honor theatrical releases.
While Dern has largely focused on acting and producing, she revealed that directing interests her as her youngest child attends NYU. She is thoughtful about taking on this new role and wants to ensure she can tell the right story if she pursues it. “The story will reveal itself,” Dern said optimistically.
Laura Dern’s reflections on Is This Thing On? reveal a deeply personal connection to the material and her collaborators. Her perspective adds a nuanced layer of authenticity to the film and highlights the enduring passion she brings to her craft.
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