TFF: The Ballad of Wallis Island (MA 15+)

Carey Mulligan stars in this charming comedy, in which an eccentric lottery winner bankrolls an unwitting reunion of his favourite musical duo – who happen to be former lovers.

Musician Herb McGwyer (Tom Basden) travels to Wallis Island, Wales, to play a private gig for a huge fee – courtesy of resident millionaire Charles (Tim Key). Herb isn’t too pleased to learn that the gig is actually a reunion show with his former bandmate and lover, Nell Mortimer (Mulligan). As the pair rehearse, old tensions resurface and sparks fly, while the relentlessly positive Charles tries to keep the peace and his dream gig on track. Combining laughs with deep emotion, this beautifully performed ballad is pitch perfect.

Screening with the short film I’m the Most Racist Person I Know, directed by Leela Varghese.

When Lali unexpectedly ends up on a date with another woman of colour for the first time, ironic prejudices she has long ignored unravel. SXSW Special Jury Award Winner.

Cast: Tom Basden, Tim Key, Carey Mulligan, Sian Clifford

Director: James Griffiths

"Alive with plenty of droll British humour 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

"James Griffiths’ tender comedy-drama… has a ton of heart, a generosity of spirit and an ultimately disarming sweetness that make it sneak up on you, cynicism be damned. It’s also quite funny, in an eccentric, decidedly British way." HOLLYWOOD REPORTER