Three nominations for The Ballad of Wallis Island

The Ballad of Wallis Island has racked up three nominations in this year’s Bafta Awards.

Stars Tim Key and Tom Basden are up for best adapted screenplay for their script, where it is up against Hamnet, Begonia, Pillion and One Battle After Another, which leads the nominations with 14.

The comedians’ movie – about a folk duo who reunite to perform for a wealthy fan and eccentric fan on a remote British island – is also one of ten in the running for the Outstanding British film Bafta.

Carey Mulligan, who plays the former musical and romantic partner of Basden’s character, has been nominated for best supporting actress.

Directed by James Griffiths and produced by Rupert Majendie, The Ballad of Wallis Island was adapted from Key and Basden’s own 2008 short, The One and Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island, which was itself nominated for a Bafta for best short film in the year of release.

The feature won three British Independent Film Awards in November: for best screenplay and best joint lead performance for Basden and Key, and best original music for Basden and Adem Ilhan.

This year’s Bafta winners will be announced on Sunday February 22 in a ceremony televised on BBC One. Sinners is the second most-lauded film with 13 nominations, while Hamnet and Marty Supreme have 11 apiece. 

Sara Putt, chair of Bafta, said: ’It is thrilling to see British indie films and debuts in the company of blockbusters that have taken the world by storm. It’s an exceptional year for bold, original storytelling. 

‘Behind these films are thousands of hard-working crews who have worked tirelessly to bring them to life – the quality and craftsmanship on display is filmmaking at its best. We hope the public enjoy watching these films as much as our 83,00 Bafta film voters have." 

Jane Millichip, CEO of Bafta, added: ‘Huge congratulations to the teams behind the 46 superb films nominated today. They showcase the very best of storytelling and its ability to engage, entertain and provoke debate. 

‘This year’s nominated films are full of bold storytelling and exquisite craft. And the breadth of narrative, genres and styles is spellbinding.’

Published: 27 Jan 2026