The Annapolis Film Festival is thrilled to announce that its Opening Night Film for the March 27-30, 2025 festival is THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND from Focus Features starring three-time Academy Award nominee, Carey Mulligan.
ABOUT THE FILM
After agreeing to do a private gig on a remote island, international music superstar Herb McGwyer (Tom Basden) is perplexed to learn that he’ll be playing for an audience of one—eccentric millionaire Charles (Tim Key). But the surprises don’t end there. The hotel where he’ll be staying is, in fact, Charles’ historic home. The landline he needs to use after his mobile falls into the sea? That’s a pay phone far down the lane, just outside the area’s only shop. And the seaside concert he’s set to do? That’s actually a reunion show for McGwyer Mortimer, the folk-rock duo that shot him to stardom years before.
Reuniting with his old partner Nell (Carey Mulligan) after nearly a decade of estrangement brings up feelings Herb would prefer to leave behind, a situation made even more awkward with her husband Michael (Akemnji Ndifornyen) having accompanied her on the journey. As the musicians re-engage with their back catalog in preparation for the big show, Herb and Nell find their musical chemistry remains as strong as ever, but old wounds soon begin to resurface, jeopardizing the concert.
Somehow, amiable Charles must find a way to manage a collection of strong personalities if he’s to witness his dream performance, while Herb slowly begins to realize that his happiness might depend on his willingness to reconnect with his past.
From Focus Features and director James Griffiths (A Million Little Things, Episodes) comes a charming and affecting tale of miscommunication, lost love, and renewed hope. THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND stars Tom Basden, Tim Key, Sian Clifford, Akemnji Ndifornyen, and three-time Academy Award® -nominee Carey Mulligan. Based on the 2007 short The One and Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island, the film is directed by James Griffiths from a screenplay by Basden and Key.
THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND is produced by Rupert Majendie; executive producers are Carey Mulligan, Tom Basden, Tim Key, James Griffiths, Sarah Monteith, Laurence Brown, Stephen Kelliher, and Yana Georgieva. Director of photography, G. Magni Agústsson; Editor, Quin Williams; Casting director, Catherine Willis, CDG; Production designer, Alexandra Toomey; Costume designer, Gabriela Yiaxis; Hair and make-up designer, Frances Hounsom.
Focus Features’ THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND will be released only in theaters on March 28, 2025.
“We couldn’t be more excited to open this year’s festival with The Ballad of Wallis Island,” said Patti White, Festival Director.
The screening will take place following the Red Carpet at 7 PM on Thursday, March 27th, at Maryland Hall. The evening continues with the Opening Night After Party, where festivalgoers can celebrate with dancing, fusion cuisine compliments of The Palate Pleasers, and cocktails courtesy of TIto’s Vodka. Tickets on sale 3/7.
Join us for the 2025 Annapolis Film Festival and be part of a community where stories come alive. Experience the thrill of discovery, the joy of connection, and the inspiration that only great cinema can provide. At AFF, every film is an invitation to see the world differently—and we can’t wait to share it with you. See you at the movies!
For more information about the Annapolis Film Festival and Film Society, including membership and upcoming events, please visit www.annapolisfilmfestival.org
