‘Pillion’ (2025)

'Pillion' is an erotic comedy drama that follows timid and inexperienced gay man Colin (Harry Melling). Leading a humdrum life of unexcitement, Colin is approached by Ray (Alexander Skarsgård). Immediately swept off his feet, Colin is taken on by Ray as his submissive, opening a new world of experiences and possibilities for Colin.

Shy and restrained Colin, on his way to a local pub with his mother Peggy (Lesley Sharp) and father Pete (Douglas Hodge) to sing as part of a barbershop quartet, sees a biker pass them by. Listful and optimistic, he sings at the pub and notices the biker there. Sharing a drink with a guy his mother had set him up with, Colin is later approached by the biker Ray. A short encounter results in Ray giving Colin his number. What follows is a slow but certain coming to terms with Colin becoming Ray's submissive.

Anchored by Melling's portrayal of Colin as an introverted and nervous man, the film delves deep into the exploration of a less than traditional arrangement in contrast to a more straightforward romantic relationship. Examining the power dynamic and how Colin chooses to participate in a relationship of servitude, the film probes into the partnership Colin and Ray share.

Without being too aggressive, the representation of what may be beyond the norm for most is explored with poise and subtlety for the most part, highlighting the emotional ups and downs, examining the turmoil, wonder and needs of both parties without resorting to obscenities. Even where the movie challenges audiences with more explicit content, the heart of the feature rests with the growth and development experienced by Colin.

Together with Skarsgård's Ray, the two leading men share a bond based on an understanding of what their roles are. With Ray being clear about his dominant position, the relationship does shift slightly towards the end, where Ray is willing to try a 'day off.' With the two ultimately parting ways, Colin suffers the loss of Ray, but learns more about himself and is ready to face tomorrow with a better understanding of himself.

Complemented by contrasting performances, Colin's mother played by Sharp delivers a more skeptical tone. Questioning the nature of the relationship, Colin is forced to confront opposing views, made particularly difficult for Colin as the doubt stems from someone so close to him. Again, without resorting to melodrama and unnecessary or over-the-top arguing, ‘Pillion’ presents Colin and Ray’s relationship, as iterated by Ray, as an arrangement that both men have consented to. By laying down the rules plainly, the information is put out there for everyone to take in and understand, leaving unnecessary and extreme responses for each individual to deal with as best they can.

Written and directed by Harry Lighton, based on the 2020 novel by Adam Mars-Jones, an outstanding feature debut speaks to the aptitude of the creator. Bringing to the big screen subject matter that could have been mishandled and made crass, the story has instead been brought to us with heart and soul, retaining a sense of discovery and learning throughout.

With matters of the heart as the pre-eminent element of the story, 'Pillion' delivers a tragic romance that ends on an uptick for Colin. Heartfelt, erotic and illuminating, the film succeeds on many fronts and can be enjoyed by those willing to listen and learn about different forms and dynamics of a relationship.

Score: 3/4