Wasteman

Wasteman has quietly become one of the more dependable crime dramas currently available in the US on MUBI. The length is exactly right for the story it is telling — nothing rushed, nothing dragged out. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Watch David Jonsson work — the performance is a masterclass in restraint. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on MUBI.

There is a reason Wasteman keeps coming up in conversation. At its heart, Wasteman understands what makes crime drama work — character first, plot second. Taylor's hopes for a fresh start post-parole are jeopardised by cellmate Dee's arrival. As Dee takes Taylor under his wing, a vicious attack tests their bond, forcing Taylor to choose between protecting Dee and his own chances at freedom. David Jonsson and Tom Blyth lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2026. The plot mechanics of Wasteman never overwhelm the human cost underneath them. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

If you cannot walk away from a good mystery, Wasteman will keep you hooked. It has built its own audience without needing a direct comparison. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. David Jonsson anchors it, but the writing does the real work. If you are going to commit to one crime drama this month, make it this one.