Pillion: A Wild Dom-Com Ride With Heart And Humor

Going into Pillion, I expected two things: another great performance from Alexander Skarsgård (one of the most consistently compelling actors working today) and a kinky BDSM adventure between two men. What I got was something far richer and more emotionally resonant. While Skarsgård may be the more recognizable name, it’s Harry Melling who truly commands the film. His performance is raw, vulnerable, and quietly courageous, grounding the story with an emotional honesty that lingers long after the credits roll.

Alexander Skarsgård & Harry Melling Fully Suited in Pilion

On the surface, Pillion follows a dominant gay motorcyclist, Ray, who becomes intrigued by Colin, a timid, mild-mannered barbershop-style singer yearning for excitement and fulfillment. But beneath that premise lies a deeper exploration of intimacy: how we discover what we truly want from a relationship, how our “true nature” shapes those desires, and what adjustments are necessary to claim what we actually deserve.

Colin & Ray's Early Encounter

The film opens with Colin performing in what appears to be a gay bar as part of an a cappella group. It’s here that he first locks eyes with Ray, instantly setting the story in motion. Their initial encounter outside the bar establishes the film’s tone beautifully, clever, erotic, and far funnier than expected. The writing is sharp and dry, with a subtly absurdist edge that gives Pillion the feel of a modern-day “dom-com,” one that’s far more romantic at its core than its premise might suggest.

Colin With His Lock Chain Necklace

As the story unfolds, the film’s humor and confident craftsmanship provide an accessible entry point not only into queer relationships, but into the BDSM community as well, territory that may feel unfamiliar to much of the audience. Rather than alienating, the film invites immersion, allowing us to experience Colin’s longing to be accepted and loved. Watching it, I couldn’t help but feel that this story could just as easily be heterosexual, because at its heart it’s about love and, “Isn’t love the whole point?” That question from the film rubs up against Ray’s hardened dom exterior, creating a philosophical and emotional tension that drives the film’s central dynamic.

Ray and The Boys Having Fun In The Water

That said, Pillion isn’t for everyone. There are moments that are sexually graphic, though they’re presented with artistry and intention, making them feel more tasteful than explicit (no pun intended). Ultimately, the film tells an empowering story about learning what kind of relationship one wants and deserves, and about understanding the emotional boundaries required to make that relationship healthy.

Colin Is Invited To Ray's For The Night

Love may not always look like a 50/50 split. For some, comfort comes from riding on the pillion rather than steering the bike. But that doesn’t mean emotional needs or respect are optional. Pillion argues that recognizing this balance is essential, and that true intimacy requires both partners to understand not only who’s driving, but where they’re going together.