Old tensions resurface when former bandmates who were former lovers reunite for a private show at the island home of an eccentric millionaire.
Starring three-time Academy Award nominee Carey Mulligan (Maestro), and BAFTA nominees Tom Basden (After Life) and Tim Key (Alan Partridge)
The Ballad of Wallis Island will be available in Australian cinemas from 28 August, 2025
This week, we chat to Director James Griffiths about the legacy and making of the film, what it is like working together over the years and we hope for a ‘work the body’ music video.
As suggested by James, double feature watching of The Ballad of Wallis Island & The Descendants.
Note: this interview is audio only. For other video interviews check out our YouTube playlist.
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Summary
In a cozy yet vibrant conversation on the For Your Reference Podcast, KT engages with James Griffith about his latest cinematic venture, “The Ballad of Wallis Island.” This film’s narrative weaves a tale of old tensions and new beginnings, set against the backdrop of a private show on the secluded Wallace Island, orchestrated by an eccentric millionaire. The film is set to captivate audiences in Australian cinemas starting August 28th.
The Journey from Short to Feature
KT kicks off the discussion by reflecting on the film’s evolution from a short to a feature-length movie, a journey that spans 18 years. James shares the bittersweet struggles and the moments of gratitude during the challenging wait. The original project had garnered accolades in festivals, including an Edinburgh win and a BAFTA nomination, and had always remained a fond memory for its creators. Despite life’s distractions and professional engagements, the team felt a persistent pull to revisit this story.
Rebirth in Isolation: How COVID Reshaped the Vision
Interestingly, James credits the COVID-19 pandemic with the film’s eventual realization. The limitations imposed by the pandemic led the team to reimagine the project, prioritizing intimate settings and a smaller cast. This necessity birthed a contained but expansive narrative, enriched by new characters and deepened by fresh story arcs, showing resilience and creativity in the face of global adversity.
Unpacking the Themes: Moving Forward and Self-Rediscovery
The podcast delves into the emotional and psychological layers of the film. James uncovers how Herb’s journey on the island mirrors deep personal introspection and creative rediscovery. He recalls the need to authentically portray Herb’s character, highlighting the universal experience of confronting past relationships and creative milestones. The film serves as a reflective piece on moving forward and finding oneself through transformative experiences.
Music as an Emotional Vessel
James and KT explore the evocative power of music featured in the film. They discuss how music captures nostalgia, allowing us to relive moments and introspect on emotions tied to our history. This depiction of music’s role underscores its significance not only in the film but also as a universal language that transcends spoken dialogue.
Lighter Notes: Creative Pitches and Future Possibilities
The conversation takes a lighthearted turn when KT inquires about creative ideas that didn’t make the final cut. James shares his vision of a playful “Work the Body” music video, which remained a cherished idea despite never being realized. This creative dialogue reveals the film’s potential to expand beyond the conventional cinematic experience, alluding to possible continuations in what KT humorously calls the “Wallis Island cinematic universe.”
The Perfect Double Feature
Ending on a reflective note, James offers a recommendation for a perfect cinematic pairing with “The Ballad of Wallis Island.” He suggests Alexander Payne’s “The Descendants,” a movie that similarly delves into themes of family, reflection, and transformation, providing audiences with a rich, emotional double feature experience.
Through this engaging podcast episode, audiences gain a deeper understanding of “The Ballad of Wallis Island,” a film rooted in personal, creative, and temporal journeys. As viewers prepare for its cinematic release, they can look forward to a narrative that taps into the core of human experience our relationships, aspirations, and the art that encapsulates them.