‘Power Ballad’ trailer shows Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas locked in a fierce music rivalry and we're here for it
From Irish musician-turned-director John Carney comes the movie 'Power Ballad' starring Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas. The movie, which recently premiered at the Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) and is set to have its North American premiere at the upcoming SXSW Film Festival, narrates a heartfelt, emotional tale wrapped in a musical package.
Carney is known for his deft use of music in cinema, having previously helmed the films 'Once' and 'Sing Street'.
The film's official synopsis reads, "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, Power Ballad is a feel-good story about music, self-respect, friendship, and the price of ambition."
The film's screenplay was co-written by Carney and Peter McDonald. Anthony Bregman, Peter Cron, Rebecca O’Flanagan, Carney, and Robert Walpole are the producers of the film. 30 West executive produced 'Power Ballad' and provided full financing for the film. In addition to Rudd and Jonas, the remaining cast also features Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu, Peter McDonald, and Jack Reynor.
The trailer starts with Rick and Danny instantly liking each other's music while jamming together at the end of a wedding night. While Rick recognizes Danny's talent, the latter commends his songwriting abilities. However, the one hit song they worked on together becomes a bone of contention between the two musicians.
As Danny declares to a packed concert crowd that the song literally changed his life, he makes no mention of Rick's contribution. Rick, meanwhile, is enraged and seeks to reclaim the fame he believes is his in the first place. The film delves deep into the uncomfortable aspects of the creative process.
Speaking to Screen Daily at the DIFF premiere of the film, Carney noted, "I’m always looking for stories in the music world that aren’t just boy meets girl, and they put on a show, and it’s nice. That’s great, but it’s also very limited. I always have my eyes open for a story that’s a musical but has something more going for it."
Carney further stated that the inspiration for the film came to him after he spotted a fading rock musician with his daughter in a cafe in Dublin back in 2015. The direction mentioned, "The guitar over the shoulder clinched it for me, because I know that guy. He’s funny, he’s tragic, he is a family man, but he’s also trying to be a rock star.” 'Power Ballad' will have its theatrical release via Lionsgate on June 5.
