Power Ballad, directed by John Carney and starring Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas, is coming to UK cinemas via Lionsgate. More here.
Now in post-production comes the latest film from John Carney. The man who previously brought us the likes of Once, Begin Again and Sing Street has been making a new musical comedy in Dublin, going by the name of Power Ballad.
News of it first came to light earlier this year, with a cast led by Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas. The story is that of a wedding singer – played by Rudd, and definitely not Adam Sandler – who’s had his best days. Then he comes into contact with a young rockstar, played by Jonas, and the idea there is that the songwriting of the former and help boost the career of the latter.
The film came together independently, and it’s now snapped up its distributor. Given the way news stories on the internet work, the cat’s let out of the bag early here, so forgive the lack of tension: it’s Lionsgate that’s snagged the UK, Irish, Canadian and American distribution rights to Power Ballad.
John Carney wrote it with Peter McDonald, and Lionsgate previously handled the UK distribution of Sing Street.
Carney’s last film, the really enjoyable Flora And Son, was distributed by Apple in the end, but lacked a theatrical release. I think it paid a price for that, as the audience for it seemed on the small side, and not many people have actually even heard of the film. A real pity.
Hopefully, Lionsgate will go a bit bigger when it comes to Power Ballad, and the presence of Paul Rudd should at least give it a shot at a good, wide release.
No release date has thus far been announced, but as and when we hear anything, we’ll let you know. Until then, do dig Sing Street out if you haven’t…
