In the Spring/Summer 2026 issue of AnOther Magazine, Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling discuss their “odd couple” dynamic in the gay thriller Pillion.
The feature highlights the contrast between Skarsgård’s leather-clad biker, Ray, and Melling’s timid a cappella singer, Colin.
Here are the interview highlights:
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The “Singlet” Icebreaker: Met with a “naked” introduction, the duo began rehearsals for a pivotal wrestling scene just two days before filming. Skarsgård joked that shaking hands in “buttless singlets” was the ultimate way to bypass small talk and build immediate physical trust.
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Melling’s Leading Man Moment: Skarsgård and director Harry Lighton champion this as Melling’s breakout. Melling describes his character, Colin, not as a victim but as a “courageous” figure leaping into a terrifying new world.
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Mundane vs. Extreme: The film finds its “magic” in the jarring transition between intense BDSM scenes and domestic moments, like Colin politely inviting his dominant partner to dinner with his parents.
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Subculture Authenticity: The production utilized actual members of the Gay Bikers Motorcycle Club (GBMCC). Skarsgård noted that their warmth helped the film avoid “dark underbelly” tropes, opting instead for a tone that is “awkward, stumbly, and funny.”
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Behind the Scenes: As Executive Producer, Skarsgård revealed he hand-picked Melling for the role after seeing his work in The Pale Blue Eye, despite his own “self-serious” public image.
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