In a unique exploration of unconventional relationships, Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling star in the film Pillion, which delves into the dynamics of a BDSM romance between a seasoned biker and a younger man. The film, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival last year, has generated significant interest as it makes its way to North American theaters. Skarsgård, who plays Ray, an enigmatic member of a gay biker club, shared that he has viewed the film multiple times, drawn by its blend of explicit content and heartfelt comedy.
In a recent interview, the cast and filmmaker Harry Lighton discussed the film’s themes and audience reception. Skarsgård noted that the film’s ability to evoke a range of emotions—from laughter to poignancy—makes it a compelling experience in a theater setting. “It can play in so many different ways,” he remarked, emphasizing how audiences respond differently to various scenes.
Sexuality and Growth in ‘Pillion’
Lighton addressed the film’s portrayal of sexuality, suggesting that it captures the complexities of Colin’s journey. “Maybe I’d call it ‘sex net positive,’ which is an incredibly unsexy way to describe the film,” he said, explaining that the story chronicles Colin’s growth as he learns about his sexuality. The film does not shy away from explicit depictions of sex, which was a conscious decision to avoid sanitizing the material.
“I was very keen on the fact that if we were going to take on this subject matter, the sex would be on screen,” Lighton stated, reflecting on his commitment to authenticity in storytelling. Both Skarsgård and Melling affirmed that they were aware of the film’s explicit nature from the screenplay stage, with Skarsgård humorously questioning the idea of a “Disney version” of their story.
Character Depth and Industry Perspectives
Skarsgård highlighted the subtlety in Ray’s character, which is revealed through small details rather than overt exposition. He mentioned the significance of elements such as the books Ray reads or the music he enjoys, which contribute to the character’s complexity. “I love the little clues that Harry put into the screenplay,” Skarsgård said, appreciating the enigmatic portrayal.
The conversation also touched on Melling’s career trajectory, with Lighton recognizing this role as a significant moment for the actor. “The success of the film lives or dies by Colin,” Lighton said, affirming the importance of Melling’s performance. Melling, however, expressed discomfort with the term “breakthrough,” suggesting that such labels can be detrimental to an actor’s mindset.
As the discussion unfolded, Skarsgård redirected the spotlight back to himself, playfully lamenting the focus on Melling. This lighthearted banter underscored the camaraderie among the cast, which has clearly contributed to the film’s chemistry.
Reflecting on the film’s potential impact, Skarsgård noted that the reception from both the BDSM community and mainstream audiences could broaden its appeal. Melling echoed this sentiment, sharing that his own parents enjoyed the film, which he found surprising yet affirming. “I watched it with my dad, and he loved it,” Skarsgård added, highlighting a sense of unexpected accessibility in the film’s subject matter.
Ultimately, both Skarsgård and Melling, along with Lighton, are optimistic about the film’s release and its potential to resonate with a diverse audience. They hope that Pillion can find success alongside other independent films that have taken risks and achieved commercial viability.
