In a surprising departure from comedy, Will Arnett ventures into dramatic territory for the first time in Bradley Cooper‘s “Is This Thing On.” Known for his comedic roles, Arnett takes on a deeply emotional performance that has left audiences talking. This journey marks a significant shift for the actor who has spent decades hiding behind humor. Yet, it also allows him to find joy in unexpected places, such as his hit podcast “SmartLess” and his desire to revisit projects like “Murderville” and “Lego Batman.”
### Discovering a New Dimension in ‘Is This Thing On’
Lying on his Sullivan Street couch, Will Arnett reflects on his role in “Is This Thing On,” unsure if his performance has hit or missed the mark. In the film’s “vampire scene,” his character, Alex, unravels on stage in a comedy club, leaving no room for pretense or protection. Arnett, widely recognized for his wit and bravado in roles from “Arrested Development” to “The Lego Batman Movie,” strips away layers to reveal raw vulnerability. Co-writing the film, he faced emotional challenges that pushed him to new limits.
### Embracing Vulnerability
Arnett describes the difficulty of this new acting approach, which demanded he abandon technique for authenticity. Reflecting on inspirations like Benicio Del Toro and Paul Giamatti, he wonders if they share the same fears and insecurities. “Starting from zero” became his mantra, inspired by Bradley Cooper’s guidance during filming. This dramatic role allowed Arnett to explore parts of himself long dormant since his early acting days.
### A Path to Joy and Authenticity
Despite the intensity of “Is This Thing On,” Arnett finds joy through his podcast “SmartLess” and expresses a longing for more “Lego Batman” and “Murderville.” Choosing roles that resonate emotionally, he prioritizes personal connection over predictability. “My baseline is my kids,” Arnett remarks, emphasizing the importance of joy and authenticity in both his professional and personal life.
### Navigating Celebrity Culture
Arnett shares his complex views on celebrity perception, noting how public personas often mask true identities. He references author Sally Rooney to highlight the disconnect between public expectations and personal reality. Despite the pressures of fame, Arnett remains focused on genuine self-expression.
### Future Endeavors
With hopes to further explore the worlds of “Murderville” and “Lego Batman,” Arnett remains open to new projects that align with his evolving artistic values. “Is This Thing On” has opened doors to new creative avenues, proving that even established comedians can find depth and resonance in dramatic storytelling.
For more insights, listen to Will Arnett on the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, where he discusses his dramatic transition, future projects, and views on celebrity culture.
