This review was initially published on January 26, 2025, as part of our comprehensive coverage of the Sundance Film Festival.
A Dream Reunion in The Ballad of Wallis Island
For many passionate music enthusiasts, experiencing an intimate concert from a beloved artist is a coveted fantasy. Imagine being able to reunite a band that disbanded years ago, stirring nostalgia with every note. In The Ballad of Wallis Island, one character embarks on this ambitious quest, only to find that the reality unfolds in unexpected ways.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Wallis Island, a secluded locale characterized by breathtaking cliffside vistas and rolling hills, we meet Charles (played by Tim Key). He invites Herb McGwyer (Tom Basden), one half of the former folk duo McGwyer Mortimer, to the island for a private concert, but there’s a twist – Charles has also summoned Nell (Carey Mulligan), Herb’s old music partner and ex-lover.
The Reunion of a Lifetime
As they meet for the first time in nearly a decade, it becomes evident that both Nell and Herb carry unresolved emotions. Herb transitioned to a solo career, releasing an album that not only surprised Nell but also inadvertently ended their professional collaboration. While Nell appears to have moved on with her life, accompanied by her husband Micheal (Akemnji Ndifornyen), Herb is left grappling with feelings from their shared past.
Co-written by Basden and Key, who previously explored this concept in a short film with director James Griffith 18 years ago, the narrative avoids a straightforward approach. The charm of Charles serves as the film’s hidden gem. His quirky humor, portrayed with a delightful obliviousness by Key, transforms Nell and Herb’s complex reunion into a lighthearted comedy intertwined with moments of genuine tension.
Emotional Depth Behind the Humor
While the film exudes a lively atmosphere, it does not shy away from deeper emotional currents. Charles exhibits an unwavering passion for McGwyer Mortimer, obsessively playing their music for Herb and making it clear that his admiration goes beyond mere fandom. The poignant irony lies in his loneliness, cultivated by lingering grief following his wife’s passing—a superfan in her own right, leaving Charles to carry the torch alone.
Conversely, Herb struggles with the grief of his faded relationship with Nell and his declining music career—an unfortunate path reduced to a punchline. This ongoing sense of loss is reflected in his character, who grapples with a version of himself that no longer aligns with his present reality.
Nell represents a contrasting narrative, showcasing resilience and growth. Although nostalgic for her musical days, she has found contentment in her life with Micheal in Portland, channeling her creativity into making chutney. Unlike Herb, her time in McGwyer Mortimer is merely a chapter in her life, redefining herself independently from their bygone partnership. Mulligan delivers a nuanced performance as Nell; her portrayal resonates with empathy even amidst moments of strain with Herb.
A Surprising Journey of Emotion
The Ballad of Wallis Island excels in execution and maintains a breezy pace that enhances its emotional depth. As the narrative unfolds, tensions rise, culminating in a resolution that feels authentic and earned for all characters involved. Each character confronts their past wounds, leading to an evolution reflective of their journey throughout the film.
Notably, Basden and Key tackle themes of grief with subtlety, allowing those emotions to make an impact when least expected. The film is characterized by warmth, succeeding in transforming what could be a somber story into one filled with delight.
The Ballad of Wallis Island had its premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and is currently showing in theaters.