Wasteman (2026)

Released: 2026-02-20 Recommended age: 15+ IMDb 7.3
Wasteman

Movie details

  • Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller
  • Director: Cal McMau
  • Main cast: David Jonsson, Tom Blyth, Alex Hassell, Neil Linpow, Paul Hilton
  • Country / region: United Kingdom
  • Original language: en
  • Premiere: 2026-02-20

Story overview

Wasteman is a 2026 British crime thriller following Taylor, a man trying to rebuild his life after parole. His fresh start is threatened when his former cellmate Dee arrives, pulling Taylor back into a dangerous world. When Dee becomes the target of a vicious attack, Taylor faces a critical choice: protect his friend and risk his hard-won freedom, or prioritize his own future.

Parent Guide

A tense crime drama exploring difficult moral choices in the context of post-incarceration life. Contains mature themes and some intense violence.

Content breakdown

Violence & peril
Moderate

Contains a vicious attack scene that is central to the plot. While not excessively graphic, the emotional intensity and realistic portrayal of violence may be disturbing. Some scenes show physical confrontations and implied threats.

Scary / disturbing
Moderate

Themes of imprisonment, parole violations, and being pulled back into criminal circles create psychological tension. The attack scene and its aftermath are emotionally intense. The film explores disturbing aspects of criminal life and difficult moral dilemmas.

Language
Moderate

Likely contains some strong language consistent with the crime/drama genre and prison setting, though specifics aren't provided in the input. Expect some profanity and rough dialogue.

Sexual content & nudity
None

No sexual content or nudity indicated in the provided information. The focus appears to be on criminal relationships and moral dilemmas rather than romantic or sexual themes.

Substance use
Mild

May include references to or brief depictions of substance use consistent with the crime/drama genre, but this isn't specified as a central theme in the overview.

Emotional intensity
Strong

High emotional stakes as characters face life-altering decisions about loyalty, freedom, and survival. The central dilemma creates significant tension and moral complexity that may be emotionally challenging for younger viewers.

Parent tips

This film deals with mature themes including criminal justice, loyalty under pressure, and the challenges of reintegration after incarceration. The violent attack scene may be intense for younger viewers. Parents should be prepared to discuss the difficult moral choices presented and the realistic portrayal of life after prison.

Parent chat guide

After watching, consider discussing: What would you do in Taylor's situation? How does the film show the difficulty of starting over after making mistakes? What does it mean to be loyal to someone versus loyal to yourself? How do the characters' choices affect their futures?

Parent follow-up questions

  • What did you think about Taylor trying to start fresh?
  • How did you feel when Dee showed up?
  • What would you do if a friend needed help but it might get you in trouble?
  • Why do you think Taylor felt torn between helping Dee and protecting his freedom?
  • How does the film show the consequences of criminal behavior?
  • What does the title 'Wasteman' suggest about how society views these characters?
  • Analyze the power dynamics between Taylor and Dee. How does their prison history affect their current relationship?
  • Discuss the film's commentary on the criminal justice system and rehabilitation. Is it effective?
  • How does the film explore themes of masculinity, loyalty, and survival in challenging circumstances?

Where to watch

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Trailer

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