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3w ago

‘The Ballad of Wallis Island’ Earns Praise for Sentimental Storytelling and Carey Mulligan’s Performance

The feature-length adaptation of a 2007 short film explores themes of connection and music, balancing humor and emotional depth.

Carey Mulligan, from left, and Tom Basden share a scene in “The Ballad of Wallis Island.”
Tom Basden, from left, Carey Mulligan and Tim Key in “The Ballad of Wallis Island.”
This image released by Focus Features shows Carey Mulligan, left, and Tom Basden in a scene from "The Ballad of Wallis Island." (Focus Features via AP)

Overview

  • Directed by James Griffiths, the film is a feature-length adaptation of the 2007 short 'The One and Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island,' with Tim Key and Tom Basden reprising their original roles.
  • Carey Mulligan joins the cast as Nell Mortimer, a character absent from the short film, adding complexity to the narrative and relational dynamics.
  • Set on the fictional and remote Wallis Island, the story follows a lottery winner who reunites estranged members of his favorite folk duo for a private concert.
  • Critics praise the film's humor, sentimental tone, and exploration of loneliness, music, and connection, though note its predictability and slightly extended runtime.
  • Currently playing in U.S. theaters, the film has been well-received as a lighthearted escape from darker cinematic trends, with standout performances by Mulligan and Key.