Bionic Buzz® covered the North American premiere of Power Ballad at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, at the historic Paramount Theatre. The atmosphere inside the theater was electric, with the crowd reacting to the film like they were at a live concert. It created the perfect setting for a movie so driven by music and performance.
Directed by John Carney, Power Ballad tells the story of Rick, played by Paul Rudd, a wedding singer whose best days may be behind him. When he meets former boy-band star Danny, played by Nick Jonas, the two quickly bond over their shared love of music. But when Danny turns one of Rick’s songs into the hit that revives his own career, Rick begins to spiral as he tries to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves.
Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas are excellent together and have strong chemistry throughout the film. Rudd brings heart, humor, and vulnerability to Rick, while Nick Jonas shines as Danny, capturing both the charm and insecurity of a former pop star trying to stay relevant.
However, the true scene-stealer is Peter McDonald as Sandy, Rick’s loyal sidekick. His performance is hilarious, lovable, and often steals every scene he is in. Sandy brings so much energy and comedic timing to the film that audiences may walk out talking about him just as much as the leads.
Power Ballad is funny, heartfelt, and packed with fantastic music. The songs are catchy, emotional, and the kind that will make audiences want the soundtrack immediately after the credits roll. John Carney once again proves why he is one of the best filmmakers when it comes to telling music-driven stories.
Overall, Power Ballad is a crowd-pleasing film that balances comedy, heart, friendship, and ambition. It is the type of movie audiences will have a blast watching in a packed theater, and it should hit all the right notes when it rocks audiences in theaters on June 5.
Connect:
https://www.instagram.com/powerballadfilm/
Check out our video coverage after the screening below. Review, photo and videos by Steve Sievers of Bionic Buzz®
Director John Carney and cast members Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, and Peter McDonald about bringing this music-driven story to life.
Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas discussed what attracted them to starring in this film.
Director John Carney and cast members Paul Rudd and Peter McDonald shared a hilarious story involving Zoom video calls.
From Left to Right: Director John Carney and cast members Peter McDonald, Nick Jonas, and Paul Rudd at SXSW 2026 Premiere of Power Ballad. Photo by Steve Sievers