Charming and delightful, even if it is rather formulaic, The Ballad of Wallis Island manages to touch the hearts of its audiences with some great performances, especially writer/star Key, who shines in his oddball role. Key gives more than just comic relief. There are a few of his scenes as an eccentric widower, that just grab your heart strings and play them like a violin. He nails it by being both delightfully cringy and full of pathos.
Writing/acting partner Basden is less of a scene stealer as the stock leading man who has to learn that he and his problems are not the centre of the universe. He plays so well with Key that they have great chemistry together. Mulligan brings some star power in her brief part, but the three make for a great ensemble.
The music is a bit part of the success here. A film about a fictional band hinges somewhat on the in-story music. For us to buy this duo as a band we have to feel the power of their songs and we do. Mulligan and Basden really connect on screen in their harmonies.
All of this adds up to an adorable story that transcends its rather rote basics to leave you smiling, perhaps with a few misty tears, and humming along.
The Ballad of Wallis Island
Starring: Tom Basden, Tim Key, Carey Mulligan, Sian Clifford, Akemnji Ndifornyen
Director: James Griffiths
Writers: Tim Key Tom Basden
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