It’s already won a BIFA and, just a couple of days after it launches in UK cinemas, tough prison drama Wasteman will be in the running for a BAFTA as well. But, while it’s an impressive feature debut for director Cal McMau, the film is equally a powerful ensemble piece, with two rapidly rising British actors at the forefront.
Taylor (David Jonsson) has been in prison for years. His son has grown up without him and he now has the chance of parole but the arrival of new cellmate Dee (Tom Blyth) casts a dark shadow over his future. Unpredictable and with an explosive temper, he drags a reluctant Taylor into his vicious battles with other inmates and that dream of a fresh start is hanging in the balance.
In this exclusive interview, we spoke to Blyth (Plainclothes, The Hunger Games: The Ballad Of Songbirds And Snakes) and Jonsson (Rye Lane, The Long Walk) about filming in a real prison and the longstanding popularity of prison dramas. Both recalled the claustrophobia of working in prison cells and the “pressure cooker” atmosphere. Blyth uses the same words to describe his character and says the confined setting helped in creating the intensity he needed for the role. The two also reflect on their recent success and the best piece of acting advice they’ve been given so far. Jonsson didn’t reveal who told him to “try not to be sh*t!” but is convinced it’s working for him.
You can watch the full interviews below.
Wasteman arrives in UK cinemas on 20th February.
