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Prison Drama 'Wasteman' Explores Masculine Brutality
17 Apr
Summary
- Prison film 'Wasteman' stars David Jonsson and Tom Blyth.
- Director Cal McMau won Best Debut Director at BIFA.
- The script focuses on conflicting male archetypes and prison life.
The film 'Wasteman' offers a stark portrayal of prison life, focusing on inmate Taylor, played by David Jonsson, who is close to parole after 13 years. His quiet resilience is tested by a disruptive new cellmate, Dee, an unpredictable force embodied by Tom Blyth. Director Cal McMau, recognized for his debut at the British Independent Film Awards, navigates the narrative with a blend of grit and polish.
The script by Hunter Andrews and Eoin Doran delves into the intense masculine dynamics within the prison walls. Taylor, struggling with addiction and a desire to reconnect with his estranged son, finds his cautious approach threatened by Dee's chaotic influence. Dee's drug dealing and provocative behavior quickly escalate tensions.
Visually, the film employs a claustrophobic aesthetic, with cinematography that emphasizes the bleakness of the prison environment. Director McMau effectively uses varied shooting formats, including vertical cellphone footage, to immerse the audience in the inmates' experiences. These interludes offer a raw glimpse into both the brutal and the mundane aspects of incarceration.
