Written and directed by John Carney (‘Once’), it’s another music-filled comedy drama from a filmmaker for whom the creation and emotion of lyrics and melodies is key to his stories.

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Initial Thoughts

(L to R) Keith McErlean as Kyle, Peter McDonald as Sandy, Paul Rudd as Rick, Rory Keenan as Binzer, and Paul Reid as Bernard in ‘Power Ballad’. Photo Credit: David Cleary.

Given his own background as a bassist and vocalist with Irish band The Frames, it’s perhaps not surprising that music should play such a big part of John Carney’s work. It powered his hugely successful debut, the Oscar-winning ‘Once’ and the jubilant ‘Sing Street’. But can he keep finding interesting ways to blend music with movies?

Script and Direction

Nick Jonas as Danny and John Carney on the set of ‘Power Ballad’. Photo Credit: David Cleary.

Carney, working with Peter McDonald (who also puts in an amusing turn as Rick’s bandmate Sandy) has crafted a fun, if slightly less impactful film that hinges on who actually wrote a song that Danny turns into a massive hit.

It plays well to Rudd’s easygoing charm (and seemingly ageless visage, which means he can still play the character in flashback), and Jonas’ willingness to play on his real life musical superstardom.

Directing-wise, it’s a lighthearted, unflashy affair that lets the story unfold.

Cast and Performances

(L to R) Nick Jonas as Danny and Paul Rudd as Rick in ‘Power Ballad’. Photo Credit: David Cleary.

Rudd is naturally solid in a role that lets him engage with the character in effortless fashion, bringing Rick’s combination of charisma and frustration to life.

Jonas, meanwhile, is also good. He might be playing a version of himself, but he eschews vanity for emotion. And around them both is a welcome supporting cast, including Rick’s colleagues and Jack Reynor as Mac, Danny’s protective manager.

Final Thoughts

Marcella Plunkett as Rachel and Beth Fallon as Aja in ‘Power Ballad’. Photo Credit: David Cleary.

‘Power Ballad’ might not quite always live up to his name –– the stakes are basement low and the drama equally so –– but this is easily the most straightforwardly entertaining movie Carney has made since ‘Sing Street.’

‘Power Ballad’ receives 70 out of 100.

‘Power Ballad’ opens in theaters on June 5th.

What is the plot of ‘Power Ballad’?

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.

Who is in the cast of ‘Power Ballad’?

Paul Rudd as Rick in ‘Power Ballad’. Photo Credit: David Cleary.

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