A24 has secured the U.S. distribution rights for Pillion, a bold new film starring Alexander Skarsgard and Harry Melling. Described as a “fun and filthy romance with heart,” Pillion brings a daring, unconventional love story to the screen.
Produced by Element Pictures, the film is directed by Harry Lighton, making his feature debut after the success of his short film Wren Boys, which was nominated for Best British Short at the 2018 BAFTAs and screened at the Sundance Film Festival.
The film follows Colin, played by Melling, who is a shy, withdrawn individual living a mundane life. His world is turned upside down when he meets Ray, portrayed by Skarsgard, the charismatic and domineering leader of a motorbike gang. Ray takes Colin under his wing as his submissive, introducing him to a vibrant community of kinky, queer bikers.
Through this intense relationship, Colin is exposed to a world vastly different from the dreary routine he’s been stuck in. However, as he becomes more immersed in Ray’s lifestyle, Colin begins to question if he’s truly found his place, or if he’s simply traded one form of confinement for another.
Pillion is based on the novel Box Hill by Adam Mars-Jones, which won the 2019 Fitzcarraldo Editions Nobel Prize. The film tackles themes of self-discovery, power dynamics in relationships, and personal freedom, wrapped up in a unique narrative that blends romance and kink with emotional depth.
Alexander Skarsgard, best known for his roles in The Northman and Succession, brings his signature intensity to the role of Ray, while Harry Melling, recognizable from The Queen’s Gambit and The Pale Blue Eye, portrays Colin’s transformation with nuance. The pairing of these two actors in a daring queer romance adds an intriguing layer to the film, which is expected to push boundaries in both story and representation.
Pillion was produced by the renowned Element Pictures, the multi-Oscar-winning production company behind hits like The Favourite and Room. The production team includes Emma Norton, Ed Guiney, and Andrew Lowe, along with Lee Groombridge. Alexander Skarsgard also serves as an executive producer, further solidifying his involvement in the project beyond just acting.
The film wrapped production earlier this summer and boasts an impressive creative team. Cinematographer Nick Morris, who worked on Lighton’s Wren Boys, returns for Pillion, while production designer Francesca Massariol (The Strays) and costume designer Grace Snell (The Souvenir) bring their talents to create a visually distinct world. Composer Oliver Coates, known for his work on Aftersun, is in charge of the music, and Kahleen Crawford, the casting director behind Lost Daughter, handled casting for the film.
BBC Film and BFI (through National Lottery funding) were key financiers, along with Fremantle, Picturehouse Entertainment, and September Film, which will distribute the film in the U.K. and Benelux, respectively. Cornerstone will manage worldwide sales and distribution.
A24’s acquisition of Pillion further expands its lineup of unconventional and edgy films. Known for pushing the boundaries of genre and storytelling, A24 has made a name for itself with films that challenge audiences while offering unique cinematic experiences. Pillion fits right into this mold, with its blend of romance, kink, and emotional exploration.
With a promising directorial debut, a compelling narrative, and strong performances from Skarsgard and Melling, Pillion is shaping up to be a film to watch out for. While no official release date has been announced, the buzz around its acquisition and the involvement of A24 suggests it will be a highly anticipated release in the indie film circuit.
Fans of queer cinema, romance with an edge, and those intrigued by unconventional love stories will likely find Pillion an exciting addition to 2024’s film offerings.
News Source: VARIETY
