Taskmaster star’s British comedy debuts with strong Rotten Tomatoes rating

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The British comedy “The Ballad of Wallis Island,” featuring Tim Key from Taskmaster, has made its debut with a robust rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

The movie is penned and acted by Key (from “Alan Partridge” and “Pls Like”) and Tom Basden (“Plebs”, “Star Stories”), while Carey Mulligan (“Promising Young Woman”, “Maestro”) is part of the cast too. This film narrates the tale of a man who’s just struck it rich in the lottery.

So, what’s he planning to use the money for? He chooses to bring his favorite, previously married musical duo, McGwyer-Mortimer, to perform on his secluded island. However, it turns out that McGwyer wasn’t aware that his ex was attending, and even more surprisingly, she showed up with her new spouse.

After debuting at the Sundance Film Festival, the movie titled “The Ballad of Wallis Island” is now boasting an outstanding rating of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 12 critical reviews.

The show has been lauded for its unique blend of subtle British humor, skillfully portrayed by Key’s peculiar character Charles, who is abundant with witty puns. Yet, it’s also commended for its ability to delve into deeper emotions subtly hidden beneath the comedy.

Here’s what some of the reviews have said:

Screen Daily

In a delightful blend of quirky British humor and tender emotions, James Griffiths’ charming comedy “islands” beautifully demonstrates that nobody lives in isolation, not even those residing on islands. Co-written and starring Tom Basden and Tim Key, the production skillfully balances whimsy and warmth while infusing it with a touch of John Carney’s musical melancholy. The story revolves around themes of connection and moving forward.

IndieWire

The three characters in this group can often be seen as typical stereotypes: the successful yet compromised musician, the disillusioned former star, and the eccentric devotee. However, Basden and Key have a deep understanding of these individuals and their respective journeys.

ScreenRant

18 years ago, Basden and Key collaborated on a film adaptation of an idea they had previously explored in a short film with director James Griffith. Although they could have taken a straightforward approach, the film’s true asset turns out to be Charles. His unique brand of humor, which Key delivers with an endearing obliviousness, transforms Nell and Herb’s reunion into a comedy of manners, reminiscent of the fish-out-of-water genre. However, in this case, Nell and Herb are the ones out of water, while Charles consistently catches them off guard with his witty remarks and unexpected twists.

RogerEbert.com

In a similar vein to John Candy’s Del Griffith character, Charles embodies a good-hearted but bumbling individual with unwavering cheerfulness. He frequently utters charmingly awkward phrases such as, ‘There’s a gem for your pants.’ Furthermore, much like Charles, Key skillfully strikes the right balance between endearing and irritating, subtly incorporating notes of sorrow into an already moving comedic act.

On March 28, The Ballad of Wallis Island is set for a restricted theater premiere in the United States. At present, no release date in the UK has been announced.

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2025-01-30 02:49