‘Pillion’ Review: Edgy Queer Romance Stars Alexander Skarsgård as a Sexy Biker and Harry Melling as His Budding Submissive

by

What is the origin of specific sexual preferences? Is it innate in us to crave particular excitement, or are these unconventional desires sparked by our experiences? Sigmund Freud had some ideas about this topic, and so does Harry Lighton’s film “Pillion,” a provocative art-house production that delves into the genesis of one man’s unexpected sexual awakening. The title “Pillion” refers to the passenger on a motorcycle, holding onto the driver for support, and in this movie, it centers around a novice submissive exploring his hidden talent for devotion, as described by his new butch biker partner.

Timid traffic officer Colin (Harry Melling), who resides with his mom, unexpectedly encounters a potential soulmate on a date arranged by his mother. The man, Ray (Alexander Skarsgård), is a striking figure in a complete leather riding outfit, embodying qualities that are starkly different from Colin’s: he towers tall, exudes confidence, and carries an air of ease that seems inherent to him. In contrast, Colin is petite, sings in an a cappella group, and appears rather reserved.

The following day, Ray secretly arranges a meeting spot for Colin, and Colin is overjoyed at this unexpected opportunity. He excitedly informs his parents about it, who surprisingly offer their support – adding a heartwarming element to what seems like a rather ominous change ahead. Colin’s parents even suggest he wear his father’s old leather jacket on the occasion, the first “date.

The first encounter turns out to be something much more unconventional and intense than Colin ever expected – in a positive sense. Despite Pillion not giving any hints about Colin’s preferences before Ray entered the picture, it’s clear that their activities, such as meeting in a dark alley, licking rubber boots, and being dominated, are far wilder than anything his mind had previously imagined. And things are only going to get more exciting from here.

Humorously nuanced, “Pillion” skillfully balances discretion and openness as Lighton portrays the unusual bond between Colin and Ray. In that narrow alley, dialogue is scarce, yet the audience catches a suggestive glimpse as Ray unzips his uniform, and may chuckle at the sound of Colin struggling over his prize. It’s evident that Ray is more than Colin can manage, and later we will understand why – with Prince Albert and all. (It’s not the first time the “Infinity Pool” star has exposed himself, which somewhat detracts from an otherwise understated acting.)

In the choice for Skarsgård, it seems like co-writer-director Lighton got his preferred pick. However, Melling stands out as the more captivating option. Known for starting his career as the annoying Dudley Dursley in the “Harry Potter” series, Melling appears surprisingly thin here, but this works to imagine him as a former overweight kid – the kind of endearing and insecure character who doesn’t realize how attractive he could be.

Peggy, Colin’s mother (played by Lesley Sharp), is well aware of the situation, and without hesitation, she becomes inquisitive about Colin’s latest romance. This curiosity intensifies significantly after Colin makes a change – shaving off his distinctive curly hair, a feature Peggy held dear, and adopting a necklace made of a padlocked steel chain. Colin instinctively understands that his friends and family might not fully grasp the complex, even contradictory bond he’s developed with Ray, which carries elements of sadomasochism.

In sterile, largely colorless environments, Colin’s situation is devoid of warmth or meaningful dialogue, more akin to being owned than cherished, and lower in value than Ray’s pet dog in their pecking order – significantly less valued than Ray’s prized bicycle. At every turn, it’s Ray who dictates the terms, essentially enforcing Colin’s subordination, as demonstrated by making him prepare dinner and then standing behind him in silence while he eats, with the dog resting comfortably on the couch where Colin yearns to sit.

In general terms, most people wouldn’t tolerate such mind games, but for Colin, they’re a price he pays for dating someone beyond his usual caliber. He enjoys flaunting his new partner at work, yet avoids discussing Ray’s habit of making him sleep on the floor. Socializing with Ray’s biker group makes Colin feel part of an exclusive community where he can connect with others like himself, even those who’ve known Ray longer and understand his rigidity. To them, Colin appears to be someone ready to meet Ray’s demands – a characterization that holds some truth, but only up to a certain extent.

Many would envy Colin’s position, but “Pillion” delves less into its provocative concept than one might assume, allowing room for personal interpretation. Much of what Melling seems to be feeling – at times hopeful, at others desperate – is left to our speculation until he eventually voices his desires, boldly asking for a deeper connection.

In the power dynamics between them, Colin worries that a single misstep could lead to their relationship’s demise, thereby strengthening Ray’s control. “I couldn’t be upset by you even if I tried,” boasts Ray, exuding an uncanny calmness reminiscent of Clint Eastwood. As the movie unfolds (“Pillion”), we witness Colin gradually reclaiming some dignity he had lost previously. The narrative is rather simple, and while a film like “Pillion” still breaks new ground, its story could have been more effectively woven into a broader context (as it stands, there’s little else going on in Colin’s life).

Freud believed that submissiveness could be a sign of unconscious guilt related to sexual desires, serving as a means for individuals who feel shame to express their needs. It seems plausible that such dynamics might be at work here. Initially, Colin may find it difficult to articulate his desires due to shyness. However, in the company of Ray, he gradually uncovers what brings him joy. Crucially, he also learns how to voice those needs effectively.

Read More

2025-05-18 13:46