The Ballad of Wallis Island follows Charles (Tim Key), an eccentric lottery winner who lives alone on a remote island and dreams of getting his favourite musicians, Mortimer-McGwyer (Carey Mulligan and Tom Basden) back together. His fantasy quickly turns into reality when the bandmates and former lovers accept his invitation to play a private show at his home on Wallis Island. Old tensions resurface as Charles desperately tries to salvage his dream gig.
"James Griffiths’ Soulful and Winsome Crowd-Pleaser Makes the Heart Sing. Tim Key, Tom Basden and Carey Mulligan are a disarmingly delightful trio in a quirky and music-filled comedy set on picturesque Welsh shores." - Variety
"Alive with plenty of droll British humor and with a music-filled, picturesque finale that is sincerely earned, “The Ballad of Wallis Island” is the best kind of crowd-pleaser: disarming, joyful and full of compassion for its oddball characters. This Sundance charmer doesn’t hit a false note." - Variety
“The Ballad of Wallis Island” is a sublime, adorable comedy whose roots can be traced to a short Griffith made eighteen years ago. This elongated version, written by the film’s stars: Basden and Key—never gives a hint of its modest origin. The film bewitches you with its seemingly spontaneous humor, a cadre of original soulful folk tunes, and its adoration of the breathtaking surroundings." - RogerEbert.com