Preview by Jon Donnis
Power Ballad arrives in UK and Irish cinemas on 29 May 2026, directed by John Carney and written with Peter McDonald.
At the centre of the story is Rick, played by Paul Rudd, a wedding singer who feels past his prime. During a gig, he meets Danny, a fading boy band star portrayed by Nick Jonas. The two connect over music, sharing a late night jam session that brings them together.
That moment sets things in motion when Danny takes one of Rick’s songs and turns it into a hit, reigniting his own career. Rick then sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves, even if it means risking everything he cares about.
The cast also includes Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu, and Jack Reynor. The film is produced by Anthony Bregman, John Carney, Peter Cron, Rebecca O’Flanagan, and Robert Walpole.
Power Ballad is described as a feelgood story about music, self respect, friendship, and the price of ambition, presented by Lionsgate in association with 30WEST and Fís Éireann Screen Ireland, and produced by Likely Story and Distressed Films in association with Treasure Entertainment.
