John Bishop, the renowned comedian, has expressed a mix of amazement and delight over a film inspired by his life. Titled Is This Thing On?, the movie is directed by Bradley Cooper and features Will Arnett in the lead role. This production draws inspiration from Bishop’s debut stand-up gig at the Frog and Bucket comedy club in Manchester, which took place 25 years ago.
Film Summary
Set in New York, Is This Thing On? revolves around a comic named Alex, portrayed by Arnett, and his impending divorce from his wife, Tess, played by Laura Dern. The storyline reflects Bishop’s journey from salesman to comedian, offering a narrative shaped by personal experiences.
Inspiration Behind the Film
- John Bishop discovered comedy in 2000, propelled by a temporary separation from his wife.
- He participated in an open-mic night, which became a pivotal moment in his career.
- Bradley Cooper and Mark Chappell collaborated on the screenplay, inspired by Bishop’s story.
Key Events
Bishop recently marked the 25th anniversary of his first performance at Frog and Bucket during his current tour. Coincidentally, he attended the red carpet screening of Is This Thing On? at the 69th BFI London Film Festival the following night.
Reflections on Showbusiness
During an interview with BBC Radio Merseyside, Bishop reflected on his career, describing how swiftly the past 25 years have passed. He humorously noted the peculiarities of his journey, indicating, “I never intended to do it… I never had the dream of being in showbusiness.”
Anecdote About Bradley Cooper
In a light-hearted moment, Bishop shared an amusing experience involving his wife, Melanie, and Bradley Cooper. After a brief conversation with Cooper, Melanie revealed that she would fondly remember “whispering in his ear,” which Bishop found slightly awkward.
Anticipation for Release
Is This Thing On? is set to be released in December, featuring a talented cast that includes Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, and Ciarán Hinds. Bishop’s involvement with the film and the impending premiere promises to be a remarkable culmination of his unique journey in comedy.
Bishop concluded by acknowledging the bizarre yet brilliant nature of this journey, affirming that he does not take any of it for granted. His story is a testament to the unexpected paths life can take and the profound impact of following one’s passion.
