Freezing Summer Warmth as Carey Mulligan and Cast Bring Heart to The Ballad of Wallis Island

Despite being shot during the summer, the set of the new comedy drama The Ballad of Wallis Island required a doctor on standby to ensure the actors didn’t suffer from the cold. Director James Griffiths revealed that the chill was so intense, actor Tom Basden appeared visibly blue in some scenes. The film, primarily shot along the Welsh coast in Pembrokeshire, proved that even summer in Wales can be bitterly cold, prompting regular temperature checks by a medic during filming.

Talented Cast Reunites for Whimsical Tale Set on Fictional Wallis Island

The film features a talented cast including Carey Mulligan, Tim Key, and Tom Basden. Mulligan, an Oscar-nominated actor with Welsh roots, stars as one half of a disbanded folk duo, opposite her character’s ex-boyfriend, played by Basden. The pair are brought back together by an eccentric fan and lottery winner, portrayed by comedian Tim Key, to perform on the fictional Wallis Island. The unique setting and offbeat plot contribute to the film’s whimsical tone.

For Mulligan, the filming experience was deeply personal. She had just given birth before shooting began and described the production period as feeling like “summer camp together.” She shared that her co-stars and crew surrounded her with warmth and support, making the experience even more special. The memory of her newborn being part of that time made the project particularly meaningful for her.

A Nostalgic Return to Wales with Beauty, Unpredictable Weather, and Lasting Memories

Tim Key noted the deep connection the team had with Wales, recalling how they had shot the short film version of the story 18 years earlier. The original, titled The One And Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island, starred both Key and Basden and was even nominated for a 2008 Bafta short film prize. Their return to the Welsh coast for the feature-length adaptation added a nostalgic layer to the production.

While the cast and crew appreciated the scenic beauty of Pembrokeshire, the Welsh weather proved to be a challenge. Basden described it as “beautiful” yet “unpredictable,” reinforcing the need for medical supervision during filming. The contrast between the lush setting and the freezing temperatures added both hardship and character to the shoot, making the end result all the more rewarding for those involved.