Ashhar Alam/New Delhi
The makers of Power Ballad have unveiled the first trailer of director John Carney’s upcoming music-driven comedy-drama, offering a lively look at the on-screen clash between Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas.
Set in the vibrant music culture of Dublin, the film explores themes of creative ownership, ego and the fragile friendships that often develop through artistic collaboration.
In the story, Rudd plays Rick, a wedding singer whose glory days seem behind him but who continues to perform while quietly writing his own songs. During one of his gigs, he meets Danny, played by Jonas, a former boy-band star struggling to stay relevant in the music industry.
Their chance meeting leads to a late-night jam session where the two musicians connect over their shared passion for music. Rick encourages Danny to pursue his potential, insisting he is capable of more than being remembered as a boy-band singer. The moment forms the emotional foundation of their friendship.
However, their relationship takes a complicated turn when Danny turns one of Rick’s long-worked-on songs into a chart-topping hit, reigniting his own career. While Danny basks in renewed popularity, Rick is left watching someone else succeed with his creation.
As the story unfolds, Rick wrestles with feelings of betrayal and frustration before deciding to take back what he believes is rightfully his—even if the move risks damaging both their friendship and professional futures. The trailer hints that the rivalry between the two musicians will intensify as the conflict deepens.
Apart from Rudd and Jonas, the film also stars Jack Reynor and Havana Rose Liu in key roles.
Power Ballad is slated to release in theatres on June 5, 2026.
