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Power Ballad: Friendship Tested by Fame and Betrayal

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Power Ballad, directed by John Carney, stars Paul Rudd as Rick and Nick Jonas as Danny, and follows their friendship souring after Danny releases a song Rick shared with him and claims it as his own.
The film explores creative ownership and ambition and premieres in theaters on June 5, 2026.
It drew humor and emotional depth at SXSW and highlights the characters' struggles with fame and artistic integrity.

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Story summary

Power Ballad, directed by John Carney, stars Paul Rudd as Rick and Nick Jonas as Danny, and follows their friendship souring after Danny releases a song Rick shared with him and claims it as his own.
The film explores creative ownership and ambition and premieres in theaters on June 5, 2026.
It drew humor and emotional depth at SXSW and highlights the characters' struggles with fame and artistic integrity.