Cannes Review: Pillion is a Thought-Provoking, Humorous, and Moving Anti-Romance

      Cannes wouldn't be complete without a scandalous film, and for 2025, British director Harry Lighton’s debut feature, Pillion, is poised to be the one that has viewers gasping. Focusing on a dom-sub relationship set in the gay biker scene, it presents fetishistic sexual acts that may unsettle some viewers. However, it would be unfortunate if all the focus lingered solely on the provocative aspects—Lighton has crafted a remarkably bold anti-romance that is humorous, sincere, and surprisingly touching. This exceptional balancing act makes Pillion an unexpected favorite among audiences.

      Colin (Harry Melling) is a timid, gangly young man still living with his parents and searching for love. During Christmas, we find him caroling at the pub where his mother has arranged a date for him. The date is not going well until he encounters the enigmatic and strikingly handsome biker Ray (Alexander Skarsgård), who, seemingly drawn to this shy individual, invites Colin to meet him the following day. Their first encounter quickly turns sexual with some boot-licking involved, and soon Colin finds himself participating in activities far removed from those depicted in Pretty Woman or Notting Hill. Beyond submitting to Ray’s desire for rough sex, Colin learns he must follow Ray’s every command, which includes shaving his head, altering his appearance, and running errands for him. After a day of servitude, he earns the privilege of sleeping on the floor next to Ray's bed—on the condition that he promises not to snore. However, he should not expect any affection or tenderness from Ray; kissing is strictly off the table.

      Colin’s friends are incredulous that he is with someone as attractive as Ray, while his mother is bewildered as to why her son endures this treatment, lingering like a loyal puppy at the feet of a master who offers no love.

      Co-written by Lighton and Adam Mars-Jones, Pillion candidly explores the dynamics of domination and submission in human sexuality. Regardless of one’s ability to relate to sexual pleasure derived from power dynamics, the film resonates authentically. It does not soften Ray's harsh demeanor towards Colin nor does it instill shame in Colin’s acceptance of his own mistreatment. This unflinching honesty guarantees that, despite its more extreme scenarios, Pillion maintains an underlying human truth.

      And indeed, it is frequently very funny. The clash between the uptight, inexperienced Colin and the extremely confident Ray leads to many comedic moments, particularly when Ray hesitantly joins Colin's parents for lunch. Even more commendable is how the script delves deeper into these characters during an unexpectedly emotional third act. What is the connection between Colin and Ray? Is it love? Must it be labeled? Can they both find happiness without having all the answers? One might assume the film is falling into clichéd Hollywood romantic tropes when Ray offers Colin a "day off." However, a final twist brings a sharp return to reality and redefines—a beautifully clear and unsentimental way—the essence of a true love’s kiss.

      Both Melling and Skarsgård deliver outstanding performances in this dynamic duo, a high-energy project that hinges on their full commitment. Melling is mesmerizing as he navigates the discovery of his sexuality before our eyes; his awkwardness when Colin first enters Ray's world of overtly sexual bikers clad in fetish gear is delightful to witness. By the film's conclusion, when we see him again singing at the pub, he's transformed into someone much more in touch with his own needs and desires. While one may struggle to understand why Colin yearns for what he does, rooting for him becomes unavoidable. Ray remains an enigma by design, with little revealed beyond his sexual inclinations; yet Skarsgård’s skillful performance suggests a deeper life hidden behind a tough exterior. This is poignantly illustrated in his final close-up: though Ray remains silent, a slight shift in his expression communicates volumes about both his past and what lies ahead, evoking a bittersweet reaction.

      Human beings operate in various inexplicable ways, and it is the storyteller's role to examine the instincts and impulses, ranging from noble to unspeakable, that define us. Pillion addresses a somewhat niche topic but does so with unwavering honesty in portraying two individuals caught in an unusual codependency. Lighton deserves commendation for this sharp, audacious debut feature, which navigates judgment while revealing so much—both literally and metaphorically.

      Pillion premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and will be distributed by A24.