I went to the cinema for my birthday to see The Ballad of Wallis Island, and what a treat it was.

I’ve adored Tim Key’s comedy for years. His live shows are works of genius, packed with surrealism and pathos. Whether it’s his radio shows, his appearances on Taskmaster, or his role as Sidekick Simon in Alan Partridge, Key has always brought a unique blend of wit and absurdity to everything he touches.

This film is no exception.

I deliberately avoided reviews and trailers beforehand, knowing he’d be teaming up again with his old comedy partner Tom Basden (who is also superb here). Basden’s music, which he wrote for the film, is also a perfect fit. Carey Mulligan fills out the third role with effortless Hollywood charm.

I won’t spoil the plot for you. You deserve to go in fresh. But rest assured: the jokes are constant and creative and I laughed all the way through. That said, this isn’t just a comedy, it has a gorgeous, tender heart beating at its core. The emotional moments are beautifully handled and, yes, I cried. I haven’t loved a film like this in years.

Go see it. Go see it. Go see it.