Meet Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas in ‘Power Ballad’

Lionsgate introduces a new music drama titled ‘Power Ballad‘ featuring Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas. Directed by John Carney, the film follows Rudd’s character, Rick Power, an American wedding singer in Ireland. Rick, once the frontman of a rock band, now balances family life with his career in the band, The Bride and Groove. Despite his past, Rick’s drummer reminds him, “We’re not rock stars, Rick. We’re human jukeboxes.”

A chance encounter with Danny Wilson, played by Nick Jonas, shifts Rick’s life. Danny, a former boy band member, struggles with his solo music career. They connect when the band performs at a wedding where Danny joins in for a song. Rick and Danny bond over their shared challenges as musicians with fleeting fame. An impromptu jam session strengthens their connection and Danny appreciates Rick’s song titled “How to Write a Song Without You.”

Returning to LA, Danny shares his tracks with his manager, Mac, portrayed by Jack Reynor. Facing pressure to produce a hit, Danny soon releases “How to Write a Song Without You” as his new hit single. This leaves Rick shocked when he hears the song at a mall. The film evolves into a musical dispute as Rick seeks recognition for the song that revived Danny’s career, a battle affecting his personal and professional life.

Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas effectively deliver their roles, with Beth Fallon as Aja, Rick’s daughter, adding warmth. John Carney, also co-writer of the original songs, continues his tradition of music-themed films. Although ‘Power Ballad‘ doesn’t quite reach the emotional depth of Carney’s previous works like ‘Once‘ or ‘Sing Street,’ it remains engaging. Despite a less focused third act, the film concludes successfully, receiving applause from its audience.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes, ‘Power Ballad‘ presents humor and memorable music, albeit not Carney’s peak performance. Audiences will find themselves entertained by the performances of Rudd and Jonas. The film carries an R rating for language and some drug use. Currently available in theaters.