Harry Melling (left) and Alexander Skarsgard in “Pillion.” Courtesy of Cannes
Pillion, a British romantic drama film that has garnered critical acclaim for its frank and nuanced portrayal of a gay BDSM relationship, is expected to hit theaters later this year.
Directed by Harry Lighton in his feature debut, the film is an adaptation of the 2020 novel Box Hill by Adam Mars-Jones.
The film follows Colin (played by Harry Melling), a young, introverted man who is drawn into a dominant-submissive relationship with Ray (Alexander Skarsgård), the charismatic and handsome leader of a gay biker gang.
The title itself, Pillion, refers to the backseat of a motorcycle, a metaphor for Colin’s role as a submissive to Ray. The narrative explores themes of identity, desire, and self-discovery as Colin navigates a world of leather, power dynamics, and kinky sexuality.
While the film is explicit and doesn’t shy away from its BDSM subject matter, it is praised by critics for balancing its shock value with psychological realism and a surprising amount of heart.
The film avoids presenting the relationship as either entirely good or bad, instead focusing on how this unconventional dynamic serves as a catalyst for Colin’s personal growth and understanding of his own desires. Critics note that the film’s explicit nature is not gratuitous, but rather an integral part of its honest and non-judgmental exploration of human sexuality.
Pillion premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it received a seven-minute standing ovation and was widely praised for the committed performances of Melling and Skarsgård.
The film also won the Un Certain Regard’s Best Screenplay prize and was nominated for the Queer Palm.
Reviews have consistently highlighted the film’s ability to be both emotionally intelligent and unexpectedly funny, with some comparing it favorably to Fifty Shades of Grey as a more authentic and truthful portrayal of BDSM. The film also features appearances by real-life members of the Gay Bikers Motorcycle Club, adding to its authentic feel.
WATCH THE TRAILER:
