PILLION
Starring: Harry Melling, Alexander Skarsgård, Douglas Hodge, and Lesley Sharp
Director: Harry Lighton
QUENTIN
I say this literally, respectfully, and with zero negative connotation: Pillion is one of the gayest movies I’ve ever seen. If Brokeback Mountain made you uncomfortably squirm in your seat, this ain’t for you. But if you can handle it, Pillion is a tender and beautiful coming-of-age love story that deserves way more recognition than it got during awards season. Yeah, it’s an explicit, surprisingly-not-NC-17 look at homosexual Dom/Sub relationships, but there is so much humanity, vulnerability, and compassion, particularly in Alexander Skarsgård’s Oscar-worthy performance, that it should speak to anyone who has experienced the roller coaster of first love, gay or straight.
PAIGE
Pillion is a sexy, yet honest and raw film that isn’t afraid to explore the BDSM world in a way rarely seen on screen. This unconventional love story is bolstered by unreal performances from Harry Melling and Alexander Skarsgård. While the pacing feels off at times, as the story tends to pull back in certain moments instead of going all in, writer/director Harry Lighton still delivers a strong debut. It’s a horny good time that is not made for shock value, but as an authentic look into the power dynamics of the characters’ relationship.
ADRIANO
After “Wuthering Heights,” watching a great and provocative romance that deals with longing and features kinky sex was a refreshing February experience. Despite its subject matter, Pillion never uses its central romance as a punching bag, but rather as a way to show the human desire that comes from this strange, but real dynamic. The sense of loneliness and desire to feel loved by a partner feels both authentic and devastating, and the contrasting performances of Harry Melling and Alexander Skarsgård complement the story perfectly. Finally, the romantic BDSM film we all deserve.
KATIE
Pillion is a surprisingly thoughtful, daringly provocative film centring on a BDSM relationship. Colin, played by Harry Melling, derives pleasure from the relationship, but craves affection that isn't willingly given, and is ultimately unsure of what he wants. This creates ambiguity on whether the romance is unhealthy or even abusive. Yet, the film is sharply funny and poignant, exploring the nature of love and trust in sub/dom relationship dynamics, and never demonises its character's desires. It's also lovely how leather clad bikers and explicit sex are set against a backdrop of very English looking towns and pubs, which gives it an odd charm.
This film was reviewed by Quentin as part of Bitesize Breakdown's coverage of the 2025 Zurich Film Festival.