First Look Teaser for ‘Wasteman’ Prison Movie Starring David Jonsson
by Alex Billington
October 16, 2025
Source: YouTube
“You are this close to gettin’ out of here…” Lionsgate UK has revealed the first teaser trailer for the film Wasteman, an acclaimed indie debut from the 2025 Toronto Film Festival. I’ve seen this already – and yep it’s damn good. Definitely one to keep an eye out for. 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. The film follows parolee Taylor whose fresh start hopes are jeopardized by cellmate Dee’s arrival. As the rebellious Dee takes Taylor under his wing, a vicious attack tests their bond, forcing Taylor to choose between protecting Dee and his own parole chances. Starring the exceptionally talented David Jonsson (last seen in The Long Walk) along with Tom Blyth, plus Alex Hassell, Corin Silva, and Paul Hilton. Though it’s a familiar story of inmates & prison culture, it is worth watching just for the two riveting lead performances and their dynamic within this film.
Here’s the first UK teaser trailer (+ poster) for Cal McMau’s film Wasteman, direct from YouTube:
After years in prison, in which time his son has grown up without him, Taylor’s (David Jonsson) parole is approaching. It’s bad timing, then, that new cellmate Dee (Tom Blyth) ropes Taylor into violent inmate rivalries, endangering his fresh start outside the prison walls. Cal McMau’s feature debut is an intense & claustrophobic portrait of a merciless prison eco-system, featuring standout performances from rising British stars David Jonsson and Tom Blyth. Wasteman is directed by artist / graphics designer / filmmaker Cal McMau, making his first feature film after other video work previously. The screenplay is written by Hunter Andrews and Eoin Doran. Produced by Sophia Gibber and Myles Payne. This initially premiered at the 2025 Toronto & London Film Festivals this year. Lionsgate UK will debut McMau’s Wasteman movie in UK cinemas starting on February 20th, 2026 early next year. No US release date is set. First impression?
