Power Ballad to preview free screenings at 100+ UK cinemas

A new musical comedy drama, "Power Ballad," will receive free preview screenings at over 100 independent cinemas across the United Kingdom on May 26 and 27. The film, which stars Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas, will have its official nationwide release on May 29.

The free screenings are part of the Escapes initiative, a nationwide program supported by the British Film Institute and National Lottery funding designed to increase cinema accessibility and support independent venues. Since its launch in 2024, the scheme has distributed hundreds of thousands of free tickets through monthly events.

Directed by acclaimed Irish filmmaker John Carney, "Power Ballad" tells the story of Rick Power, a wedding singer played by Paul Rudd, who meets Danny Wilson, a washed-up former boy band star portrayed by Nick Jonas, at a wedding. After bonding over a jam session, Danny steals one of Rick's songs. The track becomes a number-one hit, reviving Danny's career and prompting Rick to seek both revenge and recognition for his work.

The cast also includes Havana Rose Liu, known for "Bottoms," and Jack Reynor, who previously worked with Carney on "Sing Street." The film has been described by the publication...