Reviving a Classic: The Ballad of Wallis Island
Nearly two decades ago, a dynamic duo of British sketch comedians, armed with a brilliant concept and supported by a skilled director, crafted a delightful short film titled “The One and Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island.” This charming 25-minute piece not only won accolades at the 2008 Edinburgh Film Festival but also garnered a BAFTA nomination, heralding the arrival of the talented Tim Key and Tom Basden. Over the years, the pair cultivated their flair for absurdist humor through various mediums, including sketch comedy shows, radio series, stand-up poetry tours, and supporting roles in film and television. However, they never revisited the enchanting landscape of Wallis Island—until now.
Now older, grayer, and perhaps a touch wiser, the friends, who once shared a living space and have collaborated extensively, have breathed new life into their original concept by expanding it into a feature film entitled “The Ballad of Wallis Island.” This film, which thoughtfully explores themes of love and loss, centers on a musician who is invited by a two-time lottery winner to perform a private concert on a secluded island. The narrative feels like a creation from filmmakers who have experienced the world firsthand.
“I don’t harbor any regrets about not making it 17 years ago,” reflected Key, who co-wrote the script with Basden and portrays the eccentric character Charles Heath, a wealthy man who engages in conversations filled with a delightful stream of nonsensical puns. “I believe that if we had attempted it back then, we might not have achieved the right execution.” He added, “Returning to it now, we felt more equipped to tackle it and make something worthwhile.”
Returning to direct is the original filmmaker, James Griffiths. The main premise of the short film remains intact: the musician, Herb McGwyer (played by Basden), arrives at the fictional, harborless Wallis Island (filmed in and around Carmarthenshire, Wales) to perform for an eager audience of one, the character played by Key. To enrich the narrative, Basden and Key introduce a new character, Nell Mortimer, portrayed by the talented Carey Mulligan. She is McGwyer’s former singing partner and lover from their once-promising duo, McGwyer Mortimer. Her unexpected arrival on the island, unbeknownst to McGwyer—whose solo career has not flourished as he had hoped—adds a deeper emotional layer to the film.
“The audience gains insight into their youthful selves and how life has shaped or reshaped their dreams and expectations,” explained Basden, who also penned the songs featured in the film. “When you delve into that meaningfully, you inevitably confront themes of loss, heartbreak, and the regrets that accompany relationships in your 20s.”
