Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Explicit sex scenes in gay BDSM romantic comedy-drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 17+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Pillion
What's the Story?
PILLION tells the story of Colin (Harry Melling), a lonely gay parking officer seeking adventure in his humdrum life living at home with his parents. Then he meets Ray (Alexander Skarsgard), a biker in the BDSM community who takes the dominant role. The pair strike up an unlikely relationship, with Colin as a willing submissive—a dynamic he initially enjoys. But as the relationship develops, Colin begins to long for something more intimate from Ray.
Is It Any Good?
This comedy-drama about a BDSM relationship is unlike anything mainstream cinema typically offers. Nicknamed a "Dom-Com," Pillion balances tricky tonality and succeeds emphatically. Starting with the "dom": the film is sexually charged, explicit, and explores a subculture rarely depicted on-screen. It's also gloriously romantic and surprisingly tender—especially considering the sexual degradation depicted. Then the "com": it's laugh-out-loud funny with subtle humor that proves all the more effective for its restraint. As for the characters, it's impossible not to care deeply for Colin, brought to life magnificently by Melling and matched at every turn by Skarsgård as the dominant Ray. Their relationship may not be seen as "normal" by some, but it's believable and audiences will be fully invested thanks to the actors' chemistry and Harry Lighton's sharp direction and screenplay.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how sex and relationships were portrayed in Pillion? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
What role did communication play in Colin and Ray's relationship?
The movie depicts a subculture rarely portrayed in mainstream cinema. Why is it important for underrepresented groups to be portrayed on-screen in lead roles and with nuance and complexity?
Talk about some of the language used. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 6, 2026
- On DVD or streaming : March 31, 2026
- Cast : Harry Melling , Alexander Skarsgard , Lesley Sharp
- Director : Harry Lighton
- Inclusion Information : Gay Movie Director(s) , Gay Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : A24
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Book Characters
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Curiosity
- Run time : 107 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : BAFTA - BAFTA Nominee
- Last updated : March 25, 2026
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