Director: James Griffiths
Writers: Tom Basden, Tim Key
Stars: Tom Basden, Tim Key, Carey Mulligan
Synopsis: The Ballad of Wallis Island tells the story of Charles, an eccentric lottery winner living alone on a remote island. His big dream? To reunite his favorite band, McGwyer Mortimer.
There’s an interesting nostalgia around the late 2000s to 2010s folk music scene. Back then, a band needed just a few key ingredients: rich harmonies, at least one guitar, a kick drum, and an extra string instrument like a banjo or mandolin. This acoustic vibe could fill massive venues, and some still embrace it today. The Ballad of Wallis Island taps into that essence, reminding us how vibrant and intimate folk music can feel.
The premise of Charles hiring his beloved artists for a private performance sounds quirky, yet it navigates humor without crossing into awkward territory. The film’s script, crafted by Tom Basden and Tim Key, is a delightful blend of wit and emotion. It flickers between laugh-out-loud moments and poignant ones, capturing life’s highs and lows. A memorable line, like calling oneself “Dame Judi Drenched” during a rainstorm, showcases the clever wordplay sprinkled throughout.
The chemistry between the cast is electric. Basden and Key create a comic duo reminiscent of classic partnerships, with Key as the motormouth and Basden as the straight man. Carey Mulligan, though a high-profile name, seamlessly fits into the dynamic as Nell. Their combined energy approaches comedic perfection.
Tim Key truly shines. His ability to balance humor and emotion brings depth to his portrayal of Charles, an idiosyncratic millionaire. Through his reactions, we see the heart beneath Charles’s quirky exterior. In one heartfelt moment, as the characters play a song, Charles’s emotional struggle is palpable—this music resonates far beyond mere entertainment for him.
Director James Griffiths allows comedy to drive the narrative but knows when to elevate the emotional stakes. For example, when Herb questions Charles about his fortune, Charles illustrates his journey through lottery tickets—a clever moment that adds depth to the humor. Griffiths’s directing style perfectly captures both the laughter and the more profound layers of the story.
Even if folk music isn’t your favorite genre, the original songs in the film touch on universal themes of love, joy, and sorrow. The relationships among characters are rich and relatable, making it a comedy that invites both laughter and tears. This film beautifully blends a simple premise with heartfelt execution, truly embodying the phrase, “It made me laugh, it made me cry.” With its small cast and unique story, The Ballad of Wallis Island stands out as a delightful cinematic gem.
Grade: A
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