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Power Ballad

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100% Tomatometer 22 Reviews Popcornmeter 0 Verified Ratings
When Rick (Paul Rudd), a past-his-prime wedding singer, meets fading boy-band star Danny (Nick Jonas) during a gig, the two bond over music and a late-night jam session. But when Danny turns one of Rick's songs into the hit that reignites his career, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves -- even if it means risking everything he cares about. From writer-director John Carney (Sing Street, Once), POWER BALLAD is a feel-good story about music, self-respect, friendship, and the price of ambition.

Critics Reviews

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Zachary Lee RogerEbert.com Mar 19
3.5/4
It reminds us that there’s a difference between knowing lyrics in your head and treasuring a song in your heart. Go to Full Review
Angie Han The Hollywood Reporter Mar 16
Like the catchiest pop hits, it’s a little bit familiar, a little bit unexpected and utterly, thrillingly satisfying. Go to Full Review
Owen Gleiberman Variety Mar 16
What makes “Power Ballad” a terrific film is how much we believe this story. Rudd makes Rick a fully felt presence, a gifted musician with a dad-rock swagger. Go to Full Review
Preston Barta Dallas Observer 4h
Carney proves once again that music can bridge the gap between who we are and who we want to be, underscoring the magic of collaboration. Sweet, dramatically intense and creatively rich. Go to Full Review
John Fink The Film Stage Mar 20
It leans into the natural chemistry of its leads while exploring the cost of stardom, ownership, and identity within the music industry. Go to Full Review
Sean Boelman FandomWire Mar 20
7/10
Its sincere heart shines through in the script, performances, and music in a way that you can’t help but love. Go to Full Review
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Movie Info

Synopsis When Rick (Paul Rudd), a past-his-prime wedding singer, meets fading boy-band star Danny (Nick Jonas) during a gig, the two bond over music and a late-night jam session. But when Danny turns one of Rick's songs into the hit that reignites his career, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves -- even if it means risking everything he cares about. From writer-director John Carney (Sing Street, Once), POWER BALLAD is a feel-good story about music, self-respect, friendship, and the price of ambition.
Director
John Carney
Producer
Anthony Bregman, John Carney, Peter Cron, Rebecca O'Flanagan, Robert Walpole
Screenwriter
John Carney, Peter McDonald
Distributor
Lionsgate
Genre
Comedy, Musical
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Jun 5, 2026, Wide