Wasteman is a “gripping” and “brilliant” British thriller you need to know about – watch the trailer

by

Lionsgate has just dropped the first trailer for *Wasteman*, a new British thriller that critics are already calling both captivating and outstanding.

Cal McMau directs this film about Taylor, a prisoner played by David Jonsson, who hopes to get out of jail early. His plans are complicated when a new, very violent cellmate named Dee, played by Tom Blyth, arrives.

Taylor is about to be released from prison after serving a long sentence, but his fresh start is threatened when his new cellmate, Dee, pulls him into dangerous conflicts with other inmates. To make matters worse, Taylor’s son has grown up while he was away.

What to Read Next

This British thriller is a harsh and gripping look inside a ruthless prison. Alex Hassell and Corin Silva also appear in the film.

The film *Wasteman*, created by Hunter Andrews and Eoin Doran, first premiered internationally at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. It recently had its UK premiere at the BFI London Film Festival and will be released in UK cinemas on February 20, 2026.

The latest trailer shows things getting tense after Dee ends up in prison with Taylor, who warns him, “You’re going to get me into trouble, man.”

The trailer reveals that the conflict intensifies when Taylor forms a risky partnership with Dee. Taylor expresses reluctance, stating, “I don’t want to get involved in all this.”

Since its release, the film has received positive reviews, with critics particularly impressed by the director and the lead actors, describing their work as outstanding.

The Upcoming praised the film as an immersive experience, noting that Wasteman starts as a realistic prison drama but quickly becomes a thrilling suspense story, largely thanks to the strong performances of its two main actors.

The review also highlighted that McMau demonstrates a film doesn’t have to be original in its plot to be truly memorable. Its suspenseful mood and strong direction keep you on the edge of your seat throughout.

InSession Film gave high praise to McMau’s first feature film, noting that while ambitious debuts often fall short, *Wasteman* feels different. They described it as a film that confidently breaks the rules, suggesting it’s a natural part of its style.

It’s rare for movies to attempt something this challenging, and even rarer for them to succeed as spectacularly. Maybe it’s best most filmmakers stick to safer ground.

The latest issue of Living Legends is now available! You can purchase Ariana & Witches at all good newsagents or online for only £8.99.

Read More

2025-10-17 23:19