Film Review: “The Ballad of Wallis Island” is Bittersweet, Poignant And Uplifting All At Once
If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming dramedy with a folky soul, “The Ballad of Wallis Island” plays a tune that is both funny and resoundingly sweet.
The film begins as a washed-up folk musician named Herb (Tom Basden) arrives on Wallis Island (a remote island off the coast of Wales, in case your geography is a bit rusty), where he’s hosted by a resident superfan named Charles (Tim Key) and booked to play a private gig. Herb is met with a not-so-pleasant surprise when he encounters his former music collaborator and romantic partner, Nell (Carrie Mulligan), who is now married. And let’s just say there are some sour notes between the two of them.
Will Herb and Nell successfully reunite as a musical duo, or will they clash? Will old feelings resurface, or will the past remain the past? These are just a couple of pieces in this story. Thankfully, the film refrains from indulging too much in the typical love triangle tropes that we often see in rom-coms. Instead, it unfolds more as a rippling reflection on loss, and it embraces the treasure of unexpected friendships. The heart of the film really involves the relationship between Herb and Charles. What starts as a rocky and awkward meeting turns into something truly special.
During our stay with these characters, we’re treated to some postcard-worthy scenery, from charming shops to cliffside ocean views. And even amidst the more somber undercurrents of the story, the film mixes in plenty of amiable humor.
“The Ballad of Wallis Island” feels like a small and humble film, but it stirs up some big emotions. Toward the end, there’s a wave of genuinely touching moments and revelations that just might have you reaching for a box of tissues. This film is about finding hope when you need it the most, the power of keeping your life’s passions alive, and the beauty (and pain) of moving forward. It’s bittersweet, poignant and uplifting all at once. Aren’t those the best kinds of songs?
“The Ballad of Wallis Island” is available to rent or buy on all major streaming platforms, and available to stream with your Peacock subscription.
Zach Murphy is an avid enthusiast of cinema, theater and storytelling. He lives with his wonderful wife Kelly in St. Paul. You can read more reviews at his blog, Fade to Zach.
