Where to watch The Ballad of Wallis Island
You can watch The Ballad of Wallis Island on YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Sky Store, Google Play or Rakuten TV, and it's available to stream from just £3.49.
The Ballad of Wallis Island follows Charles (Tim Key), an eccentric lottery winner who lives alone on a remote island and dreams of getting his favourite musicians, Mortimer-McGwyer (Carey Mulligan and Tom Basden) back together. His fantasy quickly turns into reality when the bandmates and former lovers accept his invitation to play a show at his home on Wallis Island. Old tensions resurface as Charles tries desperately to salvage his dream gig.
Critics have widely praised The Ballad of Wallis Island as a charming and emotionally resonant film. Directed by James Griffiths and based on the 2007 short The One and Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island, the movie stars Tim Key, Tom Basden, and Carey Mulligan.
The film has earned a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with a 93% audience score, reflecting its broad appeal. Reviewers have highlighted its blend of humor and heartfelt moments. RogerEbert.com described it as a "sublime, adorable comedy," while The Guardian called it "funny yet poignant." Variety praised its "droll British humor" and "music-filled, picturesque finale."
Performances have also been singled out for acclaim, particularly Tim Key’s portrayal of the eccentric Charles Heath. The Hollywood Reporter noted that while the film “breaks no new ground, it’s an unexpectedly pleasurable, funny-sad watch, full of sweet, soothing music.”
Overall, The Ballad of Wallis Island is celebrated for its unique mix of humor, music, and emotional depth, making it a standout film in 2025.