**Carey Mulligan Monitored by Medical Team During Chilly Welsh Filming for New Comedy**
British actress Carey Mulligan found herself at the centre of an unexpected health concern during the production of her latest film, ‘The Ballad Of Wallis Island’, after enduring unexpectedly cold conditions on set in what was supposed to be a summer shoot. Famous for her roles in ‘An Education’ and ‘Promising Young Woman’, Mulligan was joined on the Welsh coast by co-stars Tom Basden and Tim Key, where the unpredictable weather became as much an antagonist as any character in the comedy drama.
Director James Griffiths recounted the challenges faced during filming at a London screening of the film, highlighting the toll the cold had on the lead actors. “Tom especially was going blue through most of the takes,” Griffiths revealed, noting that both Basden and Mulligan had to be monitored by a medical professional to ensure they were not suffering from the low temperatures. “We had a medic sort of checking your temperature for the cold stuff. It was freezing,” he explained.
The production, set largely in picturesque but windswept locales believed to be in and around Pembrokeshire, was notably bracing despite being scheduled during the warmer months. When asked about filming in summer, Mulligan quipped, “It’s Wales,” alluding to the region’s well-known capricious climate.
‘The Ballad Of Wallis Island’ sees Mulligan portraying one half of a formerly famous folk duo opposite Tom Basden, who plays her ex-boyfriend and bandmate. The plot centres on their reluctant reunion to perform at the behest of a die-hard fan and lottery winner, played by comedian Tim Key. This unique premise has already attracted considerable acclaim, with the film earning praise from critics in the United States.
Basden reflected on the filming experience, describing the rural Welsh landscape as “beautiful and unpredictable.” He underscored that while the natural surroundings contributed an atmospheric backdrop, the weather often presented practical difficulties for the cast and crew. For Tim Key, being back in Wales had a special resonance; he noted that a short film version of the story had been shot in the area nearly two decades prior. “We shot the short film 18 years ago, and we’re kind of very eager to get back to Wales. Feels like it’s a big part of the film. Weirdly,” Key shared.
Mulligan herself has personal ties to Wales—her mother hails from Llandeilo—and her memories from the shoot are intertwined with her family. “I had such a little baby when we were filming, it’s just attached to all these gorgeous memories of my baby being little,” she recalled. The tight-knit nature of the cast fostered a supportive atmosphere, with Mulligan describing the experience as reminiscent of “a summer camp together.”
The story originated with the short film ‘The One And Only Herb McGwyer Plays Wallis Island,’ which was nominated for a BAFTA in 2008 and also starred Key and Basden. Now, this expanded feature version brings together old collaborators along with new faces.
Known for her versatility and emotional depth, Mulligan has received three Academy Award nominations over her career and is married to Marcus Mumford, lead singer of Mumford & Sons. Her involvement in film soundtracks, including for ‘Maestro’ and ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’, adds another layer to her artistic range.
Despite Wales’ unpredictable summer chill, the spirit on set remained high, with cast members supporting each other through the demanding weather. Audiences will soon be able to judge the film for themselves—‘The Ballad Of Wallis Island’ is scheduled for its UK cinema release this Friday.
The intersection of artistry and the untameable Welsh coastline has provided fertile ground for this heartfelt and humorous story, offering a glimpse of both the joys and the unpredictable hazards faced by filmmakers working far from the controlled environment of the studio.