Directed by John Carney and co-written with Peter McDonald, Power Ballad has all the right notes that reaches star power greatness at the 2026 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival. Carney and McDonald created a rocking feel-good gem, combining perfect synchrony rhythmic music with the story of a gig-economy wedding singer, Rick (Paul Rudd), who befriends fading star, Danny (Nick Jonas), who decides to use Rick’s song and turn it into his next big hit without giving any acknowledgement to Rick.

There are plenty of comical moments between Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas. One of their most high-lighted scenes is when they share some brewskis and partake in some dubie-ous cloud of smoke during a jam session. I must say that I never imagined to see a Jonas brother party like a rock star with Rudd. The laughs keep rolling with Peter McDonald’s character Sandy – bandmate of Rick. This crew gave performances with bravado showing off their musical and acting talents, which both go hand in hand.

The 80s rock music adds flare to the script of comedy-drama and tenderhearted feelings. The entire cast were in sync and remained harmonized throughout. Having the film take place in Ireland gives a unique insight to the passion of Irish musicians, treating it as a central component of their culture and social life, rather than just entertainment.

Strong emotions hit hard on the topics on plagiarism and the pressures of staying on top of the charts in the music industry. However, consequences do come with a price for unethical, conniving behavior. Rick displays his fortitude to claim what is due from Danny. But, sometimes fighting for what is just can leave a sour note and make one lose sight of what matters most – family and true friendship. Despite the turmoil between musicians and their personal lives, Power Ballad does end on a high note that left me wanting an encore.

Power Ballad is set to release on June 5, 2026, in the United States.

Directed by Will Ropp and written by Mike Scollins created a well-blended comedy featuring a lovable neurotic character Brian (Ben Wang), a high school student trying to establish social ties while trying to manage his social anxiety. To make the situation more complex, he develops a fondness for his teacher. The pressure to fit in, navigating the social maze is often faced with apprehension over not finding a comfortable place to belong. A theme that is relatable in today’s culture.

Mike Scollins, a staff writer for the tv show Late Night with Seth Meyers, developed a well scripted story that features a kaleidoscope of characters – multiethnic family, gay best friend, and common high school cliques. He handled a vulnerable subject with humility and brilliantly carried it out with good-natured humor, relaying the message that laughter can be used as a tool to overcome the daily strains of life.

Being Will Ropp’s first full feature film directing, he made an ideal selection on the backdrop that effectively anchors an honest perspective of the adolescent lifestyle in the suburbs, emphasizing a naturalistic flow of reactions. The talented cast impeccably stayed grounded to maintain focus on Brian’s struggles and hysterical awkward moments that Ropp radiantly captured in every scene.

Up-and-comer Ben Wang had an outstanding performance that brought a profoundness to his character. I was especially impressed with the emotional outbursts followed by quirky satire. Ben authentically gave Brian the underdog spirit with the unbeatable heart of a champion. The supporting cast has some big names: William H. Macy, Natalie Morales, Randall Park and Edi Patterson. However, these iconic comedians took a step back empowering the young cast to showcase their vibrant talent – Sophia Macy, Joshua Colley, Peyton Elizabeth Lee, Thomas Barbusca, Jacob Moskovitz, and Sam Song Li. This energetic and affectionate group lifted the film alongside Ben Wang and made me feel like one of the family, making Brian one of my favorites by far during the SXSW 2026 festival.

Watch my interview with the cast members of Brian – Sam Song Li, Sophia Macy, and Jacob Moskovitz:

Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs), with the screenplay by Drew Goddard (writer of The Martian), comes this science fiction adventure film from the novel of the same name, Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. Their remarkable collaboration illustrates the intergalactic exploration and building an unlikely friendship to save the universe of the human race and of the spider rock-like alien’s planet, Erid.

Ryan Gosling played a decent role of Dr. Ryland Grace, with profound emotional depth and relying on subtle facial expressions along with body language rather than dialogue. Gosling’s minimalistic style bridges the connection with Rocky (puppeteered and voiced by James Ortiz) an alien that has a rock, metallic exoskeleton – no facial expressions, but expressive in voice tone pitch and body language. This symbiotic pair created a profound bond that is moving and emotionally charged.

The cinematography has a great balance between scenes that take place on earth and outer space. The human space lab and alien spacecraft are practical, yet elegantly integrated into the scenes, directors Lord and Miller made sure not to distract from the narrative nor the characters, while being transported to the immense interplanetary voyage. They also included easy to follow details about astronomy and the scientific explanation behind the Astrophage. This film is encouraging for the new generation to get involved with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

The underlying premise to Project Hail Mary is about discovering your bravery and purpose by finding something worth sacrificing for. Humans were not meant to be alone. One can be self-sufficient, although it can limit one’s potential. The cosmic expedition tests Dr. Grace’s endurance and will of survival while staying on course to solve the threat of Astrophage. Encountering Rocky helped him form a solid team and build a foundation of courage. Rocky can be seen as a symbolism of stability and hope. Never have I seen so many grown men crying over this triumphant intergalactic duo. It definitely receives 5 galactic stars!