After its UK premiere at the BFI London Film Festival, Cal McMau’s directorial debut, Wasteman, unveils a bold new trailer. Additionally, it reveals new artwork.
Following critical acclaim from its World Premiere at TIFF and its UK premiere at the 69th BFI London Film Festival as part of the Thrill Strand, the directorial debut of Cal McMau, Wasteman tells the incredible story of how a convict’s chances for early prison release come under threat from his ruthlessly violent new cellmate in this uncompromisingly brutal British thriller.
I saw the film at the BFI London Film Festival, and was blown away by it. I said in my reaction comments:
#Wasteman is a brutal, gripping British prison drama that doesn’t skimp on the violence or harshness inside the cells.
David Jonsson and Tom Bly excel as cellmates, one meek, the other a psychopath.
The film is raw and compelling viewing.
The film’s new trailer has just been released. Be aware that it contains strong language and some violent scenes.
THE PREMISE
Taylor (David Jonsson) faces the label of “wasteman” from society, his family, and even those in prison. Despite navigating a world filled with drugs, parties, gangs, and violence, he has managed to stay out of trouble until now. However, the arrival of his new cellmate, Dee (Tom Blyth), threatens his chance for early parole. It also jeopardises the opportunity to reclaim his life.
Dee takes a shine to Taylor and helps him reconnect with the son he’s never met, giving Taylor the chance to be a dad. But behind bars, nothing comes for free, and with Dee’s ambition to rise up and run the prison as ‘top boy’, he’s not only risking Taylor’s parole, he is also risking their lives.
ARTWORK
Wasteman will be in UK cinemas on February 20th, 2026. Keep an eye out for my review of the film, which will drop closer to the release date.
Introducing Carl! As the News Editor at Future of the Force, Carl has been an invaluable member of our team since early 2016. His expertise and dedication have made him an integral part of our editorial staff. Beyond his professional role, Carl is a fervent supporter of Liverpool F.C. and an avid follower of pop culture. He has a deep passion for Halloween, Friday the 13th, and the iconic movie franchises Star Wars and Star Trek.
He can be found either at his neighborhood cinema, enjoying the latest releases on the big screen, or at home streaming the newest blockbuster movies.
