SouthernWorldwide.com – The new music dramedy ‘Power Ballad,’ from Irish writer/director John Carney, pits Paul Rudd against Nick Jonas in a tale of artistic ambition and dashed dreams.
The film centers on Rick Power, portrayed by Rudd, an American wedding singer residing in Ireland. Rick harbors a deep longing for his past as a rock band frontman, a life he left behind to marry his Irish wife and start a family. His band, The Bride and Groove, struggles to recapture past glories, with Rick’s drummer reminding him, “We’re not rock stars, Rick. We’re human jukeboxes.”
During a gig, the band encounters Danny Wilson, played by Jonas. Danny is a former boy band sensation who, unlike his ex-bandmates, has faltered as a solo artist. The groom, a friend of Danny’s, invites him to join the band for a few songs. A quick connection forms between Rick and Danny.
Rick and Danny find common ground in their shared struggle with the reality that their peak careers might be over. They engage in an impromptu jam session, with Danny currently working on his next album. They exchange musical ideas and offer each other constructive criticism. Danny is particularly impressed by a song Rick has been developing, titled “How to Write a Song Without You.”
Danny returns to Los Angeles and presents his new tracks to his manager, Mac, played by Jack Reynor. Mac delivers a harsh assessment, stating that none of the songs are hits and that Danny must produce one or risk losing his lavish lifestyle.
Weeks later, while browsing at a mall, Rick is stunned to hear a song he recognizes. It’s Danny Wilson’s latest chart-topping hit, “How to Write a Song Without You.”
What follows is a dramatic musical confrontation as Rick attempts to claim credit for the song that has revitalized Danny’s career. Despite lacking concrete proof, Rick’s pursuit disrupts his professional and personal life.
Rudd and Jonas deliver strong performances, hitting all the right emotional and musical notes. Beth Fallon also makes a memorable impression as Rick’s teenage daughter, Aja.
Carney, who co-wrote the original songs for the film, continues his tradition of creating music-infused cinema. While ‘Power Ballad’ may not reach the emotional heights of his 2006 breakout film “Once” or the charm of his 2016 coming-of-age story “Sing Street,” it remains an engaging experience for audiences. Despite a slightly meandering third act, Carney manages a satisfying conclusion, eliciting applause from the audience at the screening attended by this reviewer.
‘Power Ballad’ offers a blend of humor and solid musical numbers, though it doesn’t quite match Carney’s previous best work. Nevertheless, it effectively showcases the talents of Rudd and Jonas, promising a thoroughly entertaining outing for viewers.
“Power Ballad” is rated R for language throughout and some drug use. The film has a running time of 1 hour and 38 minutes and is currently in theaters.
