Will Arnett & John Bishop on Their New Movie ‘Is This Thing On?’ | Time Out interview

In this exclusive interview, Time Out’s Clementine Yost sits down with Hollywood star Will Arnett and UK comedy legend John Bishop to discuss their upcoming Searchlight Pictures film, "Is This Thing On?". Discover how John Bishop’s remarkable real-life journey, from starting stand-up comedy just to avoid a cover fee to navigating a divorce and reconnecting with his wife, became the foundation for this heartfelt new movie. Will Arnett, who serves as writer and producer, also stars as Alex Novak alongside Laura Dern. In this interview, Arnett and Bishop discuss: The transition of John Bishop’s life story from the stage to the big screen. Will Arnett's creative process as a writer and producer for the film. Working with Laura Dern and the emotional core of the movie's story. The significance of the film's roots and its recent screening in Liverpool. The "accidental" beginnings of a stand-up career. Whether you're a fan of Arrested Development or John Bishop’s legendary comedy specials, this deep dive offers a unique look at the making of one of 2026's most anticipated films. Subscribe to Time Out for more celebrity interviews and the best things to do in your city! CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Introduction 0:45 – How the Collaboration Between Will and John Started 1:32 – The "Free Entry" Story: John’s Accidental Start in Comedy 2:48 – Translating a Real-Life Journey into a Feature Film 3:55 – Will Arnett on Playing "Alex Novak" and Writing the Script 5:10 – Working with Laura Dern: Bringing Heart to the Story 6:22 – Reconnecting After Divorce: The Emotional Core of ITTO 7:40 – Why Searchlight Pictures was the Right Fit for the Movie 8:35 – Final Reflections on the Project #WillArnett #JohnBishop #IsThisThingOn #SearchlightPictures #LauraDern #TimeOut #StandUpComedy #NewMovies2026 #Liverpool