Wasteland Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Movie Overview: Wasteland
| Movie | Wasteland |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| Director | Lisa Mulcahy |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 99 minutes (1h 39m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Wasteland (2018) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Wasteland are led by Laurie Kynaston . The supporting cast, including Mark Addy and Stephanie Hyam , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Wasteland stands out as a strong entry in the Drama genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Drama narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Wasteland has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Wasteland
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2018, Wasteland is a Drama film directed by Lisa Mulcahy, written by Bruce McLeod. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Laurie Kynaston as Stevie.
Ending Explained: Wasteland
Wasteland Ending Explained: A young man, Stevie, awakes on a wasteland overlooking Bradford, still bleeding from a brutal attack that has left him with severe memory loss. Directed by Lisa Mulcahy, this 2018 drama film stars Laurie Kynaston (Stevie), alongside Mark Addy as Father, Stephanie Hyam as Jess, Esmé Creed-Miles as Sister. With a 6.6/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Wasteland?
A young man, Stevie, awakes on a wasteland overlooking Bradford, still bleeding from a brutal attack that has left him with severe memory loss. Recent events are a total blank; his more distant memories are a blur. He slowly begins to piece together his identity: his name, his home, his family. At first it appears he returns to his former self but through a series of painful flashbacks and encounters, he comes to learn of the dark and disturbing events that led to his beating. Ashamed to learn of the person he has become – and the dangerous world he became mixed up in – Stevie realises he will have to pay. But at what price?
Lisa Mulcahy's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Laurie Kynaston (Stevie)'s journey. Recent events are a total blank; his more distant memories are a blur.
How Does Laurie Kynaston (Stevie)'s Story End?
- Laurie Kynaston: Laurie Kynaston's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Mark Addy (Father): Mark Addy's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Stephanie Hyam (Jess): Stephanie Hyam's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Wasteland Mean?
Wasteland's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Laurie Kynaston may feel rushed. Lisa Mulcahy's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Wasteland Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Wasteland Based on a True Story?
No, Wasteland is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by Lisa Mulcahy and starring Laurie Kynaston may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Wasteland?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Laurie Kynaston or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Where to Watch Wasteland Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoWasteland Parents Guide & Age Rating
2018 AdvisoryWondering about Wasteland age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Wasteland (2018) is 99 minutes (1h 39m). Directed by Lisa Mulcahy, the film runs for 99 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.6/10, and global performance metrics, Wasteland is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2018 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wasteland worth watching?
Wasteland is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.6/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Wasteland parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Wasteland identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Wasteland (2018)?
The runtime of Wasteland (2018) is 99 minutes (approximately 1h 39m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
