Hailing their British independent film The Ballad of Wallis Island

Tom Basden and Tim Key have won two British Independent Film Awards for their debut feature The Ballad of Wallis Island.

The pair won best screenplay and best joint lead performance for the film, about a faded folk musician (Basen)  and his former partner (Carey Mulligan) reluctantly reunited for a private gig for an eccentric and wealthy  fan (Key)  on a remote Welsh island.

As previously revealed, Basden and composer Adem Ilhan won the best original music category for their soundtrack.

 The Ballad of Wallis Island had also been up for best film, which  ultimately went to Pillion, an unconventional romantic comedy. Writer/director Lighton also won best debut screenwriter.

Best director went to Akinola Davies Jr for his debut feature My Father’s Shadow.

The ceremony was hosted by Lou Sanders and Harriet Kemsley and presenters included Carey Mulligan, Stephen Merchant, Ruth Wilson and Billy Crudup.

Read our review of The Ballad Of Wallis Island here. It is currently available to rent for home viewing on platforms including Amazon.

Published: 1 Dec 2025