In a fresh wave of anticipation, A24 has unveiled the trailer for Pillion, the queer romantic comedy that's already turning heads. Starring Alexander Skarsgård as a commanding biker gang leader and Harry Melling as his submissive counterpart, the film dives into uncharted emotional and physical territory. Directed by newcomer Harry Lighton in his feature debut, it's adapted from Adam Mars-Jones's 2020 novel Box Hill, exploring a BDSM relationship amid London's leather-clad subculture.
The story follows Colin, played by Melling—a timid young man living with his ailing parents—who gets swept into Ray's world, portrayed by the ever-intense Skarsgård. What starts as a hesitant meet-cute evolves into a dynamic laced with power play and unexpected tenderness. Indeed, the trailer teases this blend with quick cuts of motorcycle rides, intimate encounters, and moments of raw vulnerability, all set to a cheeky '60s pop tune that underscores the film's playful yet provocative tone.
However, Pillion isn't just buzz for buzz's sake. It premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section on May 18, snagging the Best Screenplay award and even the Palm Dog for its canine sidekick. Nominations for the Caméra d'Or and Queer Palm followed, signaling critical acclaim for Lighton's bold vision. Skarsgård, in recent chats, revealed they shot even more graphic scenes than what's in the final cut, emphasizing the project's unflinching honesty about desire and consent.
Moreover, the film's production drew from real inspirations, like Skarsgård's encounters with actual gay biker clubs, adding authenticity to the leather-and-chains aesthetic. Melling, known for his transformative roles post-Harry Potter, brings a quiet intensity that contrasts sharply with Skarsgård's magnetic dominance. Critics have praised the duo's chemistry, calling it a rare mix of horny and heartfelt—though some question if the sub/dom dynamic risks romanticizing imbalance.
With a UK theatrical release slated for November 28 via Picturehouse, Pillion promises to challenge norms in mainstream queer cinema. As audiences gear up for this unlikely love story, one can't help but wonder how far such explorations will push the boundaries of on-screen intimacy.