The Ballad of Wallis Island
The Brief
This is a real charm bomb of a film: a low-key but bubbling fresh drama that takes place on a remote island off the coast of Wales. Musician Herb McGywer arrives here to play a private concert for an eccentric and lonely millionaire, Charles. It seems like a simple and well-paid gig. But then it turns out that Charles has also invited Herb's former musical and romantic partner, Nell Mortimer (Carey Mulligan). Herb and Nell haven't seen each other in many years. Some years ago, Herb and Nell had great success as the folk duo McGywer Mortimer. After their relationship ended, both privately and professionally, they haven't spoken. Nell has moved to the USA, where she has married and started a new career as a jam producer. Herb has continued as a solo artist, with a star that shines dimmer with each new forgettable album he releases. Charles is a superfan of McGywer Mortimer, and this is the reason (well, one of the reasons) why he has spent a lot of money to arrange a reunion for the duo on the deserted island. The Ballad of Wallis Island is a genuinely funny and touching film with a huge twinkle in its eye, but also a melancholic undertone. A funny, charming and melancholic gem of a film.