Film Review – Wasteman (2025)

      Wasteman, 2025.

      Directed by Cal McMau.

      Featuring David Jonsson, Tom Blyth, Alex Hassell, Neil Linpow, Paul Hilton, Corin Silva, Layton Blake, Jack Barker, Fred Muthui, Lunga Skosana, Robert Rhodes, Keaton Ancona-Francis, and Cole Martin.

      SYNOPSIS:

      The story centers around parolee Taylor, whose hopes for a new beginning are threatened by the arrival of cellmate Dee. As Dee mentors Taylor, a brutal attack challenges their relationship, compelling Taylor to decide between safeguarding Dee and preserving his own chances for parole.

      Cal McMau's narrative feature debut, Wasteman (from a screenplay by Eoin Doran and Hunter Andrews), underlines its intentions and themes with actual spliced-in cellphone footage depicting wild and unruly behavior in an overcrowded British prison. The film is intentionally and effectively disorienting—not only due to this leaked footage, depicting an institution that resembles more of a recreational center than a rehabilitative one, where guards are scarce, and inmates easily smuggle drugs using drones while engaging in video games between parties and fights—but also because of its brutal portrayal, utilizing claustrophobic camera angles and shaky movements that impart a gritty realism to the physical action.

      The central character, Taylor, played by up-and-coming actor David Jonsson, serves as an exception to this chaos; he continues to use drugs but largely stays clear of conflicts. Taylor's quiet, timid demeanor evokes empathy, making one question how he ended up among such a disregarded crowd. It becomes apparent that due to a new law, certain inmates may be released for good behavior, which in Taylor’s circumstance means he does not pose a significant problem despite his drug use. Still, he anxiously anticipates reconnecting with his teenage son, even as a phone call with his estranged ex-partner reveals her strong opposition to the idea of a reunion.

      The film wouldn't progress towards his anticipated return to society without a significant obstacle, which is introduced through the arrival of cellmate Dee, portrayed by Tom Blyth, who is more invested in dominating the prison's drug trade than exhibiting any good behavior. This endangers Taylor's chance for release, though Dee also shows some kindness, allowing Taylor to use his phone to reach out to his son via social media.

      Wasteman compensates for its typical plot with a sense of authenticity, demonstrated not only through the incorporation of raw cell phone footage but also by collaborating with a charity and featuring a cast of formerly incarcerated individuals who have reformed. This provides a robust understanding of the microcosm of the prison society, its hierarchy, and Taylor’s low standing within it, as he differs from the other inmates. There’s even a riot scene that echoes the authentic footage, creating an atmosphere that feels dangerously real.

      Ultimately, Wasteman explores the tested bond between Taylor and Dee, focusing more on the rawness of their relationship than on thrill. In one intense scene, one character vomits on another, emphasizing the film's unflinching representation of life inside this particular prison. Blending fiction with documentary elements, the film carries significant weight, ensuring that its minor flaws do not diminish its impact.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder