Old tensions resurface when former bandmates who were former lovers reunite for a private show at the island home of an eccentric millionaire.
Director: James Griffiths
Cast: Tim Key, Tom Basden, Carey Mulligan, Akemnji Ndifornyen, Sian Clifford
Release Date: March 28, 2025
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music, Romance
Rated PG-13 for some language and smoking.
Runtime: 1h 40m
Review:
The Ballad of Wallis Island is one of those indie gems that pops up every so often that's so subtly heartfelt and funny that you barely notice how engaged you’re with it until it lingers in your memory long after the film ends. The film is surprising on multiple levels as it traffics in various rom-com/awkward comedy tropes but takes them in refreshingly unexpected directions. Director, James Griffiths, reunites with writers/stars Tom Basden and Tim Key for this feature length adaptation of their 2007 short The One and Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island. Their familiarity working together and the subject matter is readily apparent as they create something disarmingly funny, sweet and meaningful. Tim Key brings an endearing but oblivious awkwardness that could have bordered on creepy if his performance wasn't so carefully nuanced. Key gives his character a well-meaning authenticity to the man simply trying to memorialize his deceased wife with a performance from his favorite musicians. Tom Basden brings an appropriate sense of self-importance to his half of the musical duo at the center of the film. Basden performance is a fascinating blend ego paired with self-loathing as he’s desperate to find his musical groove again after pursuing a more commercial career at the cost of his relationship. Carey Mulligan is pitch perfect as his ex-who’s moved on but is willing to revisit that part of her life as part of the gig. Mulligan's character is measured and layered in a way that you rarely see in these kinds of movies. Her character acts like a real person throughout especially in the final act which touches on the recurring themes of regret, loss and acceptance. It all builds together to make The Ballad of Wallis Island something truly special and memorable in the best way possible.
A
