Nick Jonas stars in ‘Power Ballad,’ a music drama with Paul Rudd, out today

Nick Jonas stars alongside Paul Rudd in ‘Power Ballad,’ a musical comedy drama that expanded to wide theatrical release today, June 5, 2026. Written and directed by John Carney, the film follows Rick Power, a past-his-prime wedding singer, who bonds with fading boy-band star Danny Wilson after a chance meeting at a castle gig in Dublin.

Quick Facts

• The film expanded wide on June 5, 2026, after a limited May 29 release
• Directed by John Carney, known for ‘Sing Street’ and ‘Once’
• Rotten Tomatoes score: 86% positive from 116 critics
• The story centers on a songwriter’s fight for credit when his original composition is claimed by a pop star

The central conflict unfolds when Danny uses Rick’s original song, “How to Write a Song (Without You),” to reignite his solo career without acknowledging the wedding singer’s contribution. Rick’s desperate attempts to prove he wrote the song and reclaim credit drive the narrative, eventually forcing him to confront what truly matters in life beyond fame and recognition.

Carney’s latest film features a supporting cast including Havana Rose Liu, Jack Reynor, and Peter McDonald. The film premiered at the Dublin International Film Festival on March 1, 2026, and played at South by Southwest before its theatrical rollout. Critics have praised the chemistry between the two leads, with Rotten Tomatoes’ consensus noting that “Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas prove to be harmonious screen partners in Power Ballad, a mellow dramedy that acknowledges the allure and pitfalls of stardom with equal measures of grace.”

Sources

• Wikipedia — film synopsis, cast, director, release dates, and critical reception
• Rotten Tomatoes — critic score and consensus review
• IMDb — plot summary and cast details