Paul Rudd is teaming up with “The Voice” coach alum Nick Jonas for a new musical comedy!
The film titled “Power Ballad” is set to close out the 2026 Dublin International Film Festival, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
All About ‘Power Ballad’
The world premiere — scheduled for March 1, 2026, at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre — marks a major milestone for the film, director John Carney, and the Irish festival itself.
Directed and co-written by Carney, the filmmaker behind beloved music-infused hits like “Once” and “Sing Street,” “Power Ballad” stars Rudd as Rick, a wedding singer whose glory days are behind him, and Jonas as Danny, a fading boy-band heartthrob.
When the two cross paths at a gig and jam late into the night, their unexpected friendship becomes the heart of a feel-good story about rediscovery, ambition and the power of music to change lives.
Carney Is Looking Forward to the Premiere
Carney expressed how happy he was to have his film premiere at the fest in an interview with Irish Central.
“I’m delighted to have our film, ‘Power Ballad’, close this year’s festival. It’s apt to go out, after so many great films, with a bang of music and fun,” he stated. “Who wouldn’t want to watch Paul Rudd throw Nick Jonas off a balcony? (Seriously, that happens in our movie.)”
Dublin will roll out the red carpet for its star-studded closing night — with both Rudd and Jonas confirmed to attend — spotlighting the film as a festive, high-energy finale to the 11-day festival lineup.
The laughs and music don’t stop at the festival: after Dublin, “Power Ballad” is set for additional early screenings, including South by Southwest (SXSW) in mid-March, before rolling into theaters across the U.S. and internationally on June 5, 2026, courtesy of Lionsgate.
Carney, long admired for blending heartfelt storytelling with infectious soundtracks, brings a warm, character-driven vibe to this latest project.
His signature touch — evident in past hits that celebrated the soul of music and its movers — is expected to shine as Rick and Danny navigate backstage drama, ego clashes, and the highs and lows of creative life.
Fans are already excited to see his new film!
Supporting performances come from an eclectic cast including Jack Reynor, Havana Rose Liu, Marcella Plunkett and Sophie Vavasseur, adding depth to a story that’s as much about friendship and learning to let go as it is about the song that changes everything.
