UK cinema audiences are being treated to the release of what critics are calling the 'hottest romance in decades,' a compelling new drama titled Pillion that features a star from the Harry Potter franchise.
A Foray into an Unconventional Love Story
Marking the directorial debut of English filmmaker Harry Lighton, Pillion charts the unlikely romance between two very different men. The story follows Colin, a timid and introverted singer, and Ray, an 'impossibly handsome' biker. Their connection begins one night at a local pub when Ray approaches Colin, setting the stage for a love story deeply rooted in their BDSM practices.
The official synopsis sets the scene: "A timid man is swept off his feet when an enigmatic, impossibly handsome biker takes him on as his submissive." While the film's subject matter is intensely sensual, it also explores tender themes of self-discovery and identity, actively challenging conventional notions of what constitutes a 'normal' relationship.
The drama is an adaptation of author and film critic Adam Mars-Jones's 2020 novel, Box Hill, which similarly delves into explorations of gay identity.
Star-Studded Performances from Familiar Faces
While director Lighton may be a new name for many, his leading actors are established figures on the screen. Portraying the introverted Colin is Harry Melling, an actor who first shot to fame as Dudley Dursley in the Harry Potter film series. Melling has since built a formidable career with roles in major productions like Netflix's The Queen's Gambit and BBC Two's Wolf Hall.
Opposite him, playing the dominant Ray, is Alexander Skarsgård. The acclaimed Swedish actor recently led the cast of Apple TV's sci-fi drama Murderbot and brings a powerful presence to his role as Melling's on-screen Dom.
Universal Acclaim from Critics and Audiences Alike
Following its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival this spring, Pillion immediately won over critics. It currently boasts a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 45 reviews. Although this rating may fluctuate as more people see the film, early indications strongly suggest it is a major crowd-pleaser.
The Rotten Tomatoes critics' consensus effusively praises the film, stating: "A remarkable directorial debut by Harry Lighton, Pillion is an unconventional romance that soars thanks to its non-judgmental perspective and knockout performances."
The acclaim doesn't stop there. One critic went so far as to dub it the "hottest master-servant romance we’ve been served in decades." Meanwhile, IndieWire reviewed the film, saying: "Ultimately a deeply moving love story, one where we become the submissives to Lighton’s strange, beautiful, and sexy vision. It also never hurts to be anchored by two actors who are totally game and committed to that vision."
The enthusiasm has spread to casual moviegoers on the social platform Letterboxd. One viewer praised the performances, writing: "Harry Melling is delightful and Alexander Skarsgård delivers a reserved but poignant performance I'll be thinking about for a long time." Another simply gushed: "Perfect film, many many many many many tears."
Pillion is in cinemas across the UK now.
