by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
What would you do if you won the lottery? Even better question…what would you do if you won the lottery TWICE? That compelling question is one of the key elements of the story to the new comedy, The Ballad of Wallis Island. This little, quirky film is written by Tom Basden and Tim Key. Not only that, both of these gentlemen star in the film with Key portraying our quirky, reclusive individual named Charles who decides he is going to pay an aging music star quite the sum of money to perform a private concert for him. But there is an added layer to this already strange and unique premise…Charles invites Herb McGwyer’s former music partner Nell Mortimer (and her husband) to join in said concert. That sounds like quite the bit of drama (and laughs) to ensue.
What is Basden and Key able to accomplish on the page? Quite a bit with some familiar ingredients and beats. You have a few narrative threads that are going to play out exactly how you expect them too. There will obviously be some strange banter between this recluse and this musician that will soon give way to some genuine connections. There will be a spark explored between these former musical partners. Her husband will most certainly be the “stick in the mud” to this situation. The destinations might be expected but it is the journey that Basden & Key craft makes this such an impactful experience. There are so many hilarious moments sprinkled throughout this film. The dialogue (especially Key’s) is so sharp, clever, and charming. The music is quite good as well and makes for some moving and impactful moments, which is an essential piece when you are offering up a story centered around musicians. The character growth is probably the most impressive element of the film. Charles and Herb grow so much because of this unexpected experience together.
Does Griffiths bring a steady and effective hand from behind the camera? This film is just so rustically beautiful. The design of Charles’ home is just so effective as the audience is made to feel just as at home as Herb. There is a raw and authentic feeling to the film as well. This island is not bright and shiny, but its beauty is still captured in the gorgeous and engrossing cinematography done by G. Magni Agutsson. There are some sharp directorial moments as well. There are few intense moments in the film but one moment out in the water has some unnerving editing and direction that makes you feel like you’re drowning as well (it is such an uncomfortable moment). The biggest achievement that Griffiths has as a director with this project is the perfect balance of humor, authentic emotion, and the power of music. This film is one of the funniest movies to come out in theaters in a while. There are some really moving moments throughout the film as Charles and Herb go through such personal journeys. When the film offers musical moments, it is fully engrossing and the music channels through you so well.
What really ties this whole experience together? The cast. Basden and Key accomplish a lot with their screenplay, but it is their performances that make this film feel so impactful. Key is a revelation. His performance brings Charles from the page into a character who is immediately beloved. There is something special about this performance as it is so layered and filled with inspired acting choices. Key can capture the complete lack of social skills in Charles through his body language, facial expressions, and reactions. His comedic timing is unmatched with so many great retorts, biting barbs (that are not meant to be mean, but he just has a way with words), and his commitment to the silly play-on-words is just so endearing. But it is the emotion underneath that surface that Key regulates so perfectly that makes him so effective. Basden doesn’t quite have the personality of Key here, but he is able to sell this transformation from tired and lost soul to someone full of new life and hope. Mulligan is just fantastic as ever in the more limited role that she has in the film. Special shoutout to Fleabag alumna Sian Clifford who crafts such a charming and sweet potential suitor for Charles.
Is The Ballad of Wallis Island the charming little flick-that-could at this early juncture in 2025? Griffith, Basden, and Key have created such a charming and moving little film that everyone should see. Key is a true wonder on screen and his character of Charles will be an instantly beloved figure in 2025 cinema. This little ensemble and this gorgeous remote island bring so much to the table which turns out to be quite the magical cinematic experience.
Rating: Loved It
The Ballad of Wallis Island is currently playing in theaters
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