John Carney's new Dublin-shot film Power Ballad acquired for North America, UK and Ireland by Lionsgate

Lionsgate have secured the North America, UK and Ireland rights for Dublin director John Carney's eagerly anticipated new film, Power Ballad.

Starring Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas (of Jonas Brothers fame), and Irish actor Jack Reynor, the film recently wrapped up production in Ireland. According to Variety, the "uplifting and music-driven story" is centred around a wedding singer (played by Rudd), a younger rock star (played by Jonas), and a song that comes between them.

“I am so delighted this film, which has been in my heart for so long, has found its home,” Carney, who wrote the script alongside Peter McDonald, has stated.

Power Ballad is the latest in a string of acclaimed music-centred films from Carney – following the likes of Once, Begin Again, Sing Street, and, most recently, Flora and Son.

“I’ve always been a huge fan of John’s movies, and I’ve had my eye on this particular film for some time,” comments Lionsgate’s Motion Picture Group chair, Adam Fogelson. “It combines the best of John’s immense creative talents with a marketable concept and an incredible cast. I couldn’t be happier that he and the rest of the team have entrusted us with it.”

Lionsgate will oversee the theatrical release of Power Ballad in the US, Canada, the UK and Ireland.

Stay tuned for further news as it comes in...

Revisit our latest interview with John Carney – published in Hot Press in October 2023, around the release of Flora and Son – here.