WASTEMAN – a prison thriller of life behind bars – has been nominated for a BAFTA, after being filmed largely in Somerset.

The moive is set for a UK cinema release on February 20, having debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival last year.

Starring David Jonsson and Tom Blyth, the film was filmed over two weeks in June 2024, largely at the Victorian B Wing, of Shepton Mallet Prison.

It was produced by Adolescence director, Philip Barantini, with director Cal McMau now shortlisted for the Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer BAFTA, alongside writers Hunter Andrews and Eoin Doran.

Dating from 1625, Shepton Mallet Prison was the oldest operating prison when it closed in 2013.

Wasteman is the latest in a long line of film and TV productions to film at the location, with the likes of Paddington 2 and Wicked Little Letters previously setting up at the Somerset attraction.

The project was supported by Screen Somerset, which supports, encourages and celebrates filming in the county, helping secure an estimated £4.2m to the county economy in 2025.

A scene from Wasteman filmed at Shepton Mallet Prison. Picture: Somerset Council

“Shepton Mallet Prison is a filming hotspot and a fantastic example of the wide range of locations that the county has to offer,” said Councillor Mike Rigby, Somerset Council lead member for economic development, planning and assets.

“Working with locations like this – promoting them and helping filming go smoothly – is all part of making Somerset as film-friendly and attractive to filmmakers as possible.”

Wasteman follows Taylor, played by Jonsson, doing his best to stay out of trouble behind bars in a dehumanised world of drugs, parties and relentless violence.

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The arrival of a new cellmate, the volatile and unpredictable Dee, played by Blyth, puts his chances of early parole and reuniting with his son in jeopardy.

Charlie Lawson, attraction director at Shepton Mallet Prison, added: “We’re really excited about the release of Wasteman, which shines a spotlight on Shepton Mallet Prison as a raw and authentic filming location.

“Support from the film industry in towns such as Shepton Mallet not only raises the profile of the location but also generates vital income.

“Productions like this directly support Cove Group, the owners of Shepton Mallet Prison, in showcasing, preserving, and restoring the 400-year-old site.

“This ensures its history, character, and future are protected for generations to come, and recognised through its presence in film and television.”

Wasteman – rated 18 – will hit cinemas on February 20.

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