Power Ballad

⭐⭐⭐1/2

If you’re a Paul Rudd fan, you already know what you’re getting into. The guy just has this effortless charm that makes everything he’s in feel better. And with Power Ballad, he does it again. He’s funny, warm, and so easy to watch. But what caught me off guard is that the movie doesn’t just lean on his likability. It actually has something to say — and it says it in a way that feels real.

The story follows Rick (Paul Rudd), a washed-up wedding singer long past his prime. During a gig, he crosses paths with Danny (Nick Jonas), a fading boy-band star also struggling to stay relevant. The two bond over music during a late-night jam session, but things take a turn when Danny turns one of Rick’s songs into a hit that reignites his career. Feeling overlooked, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves — even if it means risking everything. It’s a story about music, self-respect, friendship, and the price of ambition, told with humor and heart.

Paul Rudd is a huge reason why this works. He’s so good at playing roles where he can be hilarious one second and quietly reflective the next, and it never feels forced. That’s what I’ve always loved about him — he doesn’t feel like he’s “acting at you.” He just fits into the scene and makes it feel natural. Here, he brings his usual humor, but there’s also more depth to his performance, and that balance anchors the movie.

And then there’s Nick Jonas. I wasn’t sure what to expect from him, but he’s not just there to be a familiar face. He adds something meaningful. What I liked is that he doesn’t try to match Paul Rudd’s energy — he brings his own vibe. He’s more polished, steadier, and that contrast works. Their dynamic adds an extra layer to the movie, and since music is such a big part of the story, having Jonas in the mix feels like a smart choice.

The supporting cast deserves credit, too. Havana Rose Liu, Jack Reynor, Marcella Plunkett, Beth Fallon, and Peter McDonald all bring something meaningful to the table. No one feels wasted, and the relationships between the characters feel believable. That’s important in a movie like this — if the connections don’t feel real, the emotional moments won’t land.

What makes Power Ballad stand out is its Irish roots. Directed by John Carney, the film has that natural mix of music and storytelling he does so well. The songs don’t just feel like part of the soundtrack — they feel like part of the characters’ lives. And setting the story in Ireland, with its neighborhoods and its connection to music, gives the movie a lot of its personality.

If you’re looking for a break from the everyday, this film delivers. Paul Rudd is as charming as ever, Nick Jonas surprises in the best way, and the music brings it all together. It’s not trying to win awards, but it doesn’t need to — it’s just a genuinely enjoyable movie.

Frank Gaimari is an author and film reviewer in Seattle. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. You can learn more about his work at http://www.FrankGaimari.com