Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas Bring Music Comedy 'Power Ballad' to SXSW

The film follows a wedding band singer who teams up with a former boy band star, but things take an unexpected turn.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 11:03pm

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Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas star in the music-themed comedy film 'Power Ballad,' which premiered at the SXSW festival. The movie follows Rick Power (Rudd), a wedding band singer who stumbles into a late-night jam session with former boy band star Danny (Jonas) and reignites his passion for songwriting. However, Danny ends up taking one of Rick's songs, turning it into a hit, and claiming it as his own, leading Rick on a quest to reclaim the recognition he deserves.

Why it matters

The film explores themes of creative ownership, the challenges of the music industry, and the personal sacrifices artists sometimes make to achieve success. It also highlights the chemistry between veteran actor Paul Rudd and pop star Nick Jonas.

The details

In the film, Rick and Danny engage in several drunken duets after Rick offers Danny some marijuana. As Jonas put it, the movie's key takeaway is 'Be careful who you share a blunt with.'

  • The film premiered at the 2026 SXSW festival in Austin, Texas.

The players

Paul Rudd

An American actor known for his roles in films such as 'Ant-Man,' 'Clueless,' and 'Anchorman.'

Nick Jonas

An American singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as a member of the pop group Jonas Brothers.

John Carney

An Irish filmmaker who directed the music-themed films 'Once' and 'Sing Street.'

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What they’re saying

“Be careful who you share a blunt with.”

— Nick Jonas

The takeaway

The film 'Power Ballad' explores the complexities of the music industry and the personal sacrifices artists sometimes make to achieve success, while also highlighting the on-screen chemistry between veteran actor Paul Rudd and pop star Nick Jonas.