Should you watch Pillion (2025)?

Get ready. Pillion (2025) is the “gay biker dom-com” we didn’t know we needed. We dive into why this tender BDSM drama is a must-watch for the community. A tender and explicit queer psychological drama starring Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling, and discover where to watch it today

Short intro to Pillion 2025

“Pillion” is a word for the passenger seat on a motorcycle, or the person riding behind the driver.*We often associate power dynamics in films with fear or secrecy. Pillion 2025, directed by Harry Lighton, reimagines this concept through a unique lens as a gay “dom-com” (a romantic comedy centered on dominant/submissive relationships; see note below), but it resonates just as much as a thoughtful gay drama about dominance and submission. Rather than focusing on the “shock” of fetish, the film explores the genuine human need for connection. The story ultimately offers an honest perspective on discovering ourselves by placing trust in others.

Note: “Dom-com” is a play on “rom-com” (romantic comedy), with “dom” referring to a dominant partner in a relationship, often used in the context of BDSM.*

So what makes Pillion stand out?

Let’s take a closer look at what it’s all about.

The film centers on Colin, a reserved traffic warden living quietly with his parents in suburban London. His world shifts when he encounters Ray, a strong and enigmatic biker portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård. What begins as a brief encounter soon transitions into a dedicated BDSM relationship. Colin steps into the role of Ray’s submissive, immersing himself in a new environment of leather, motorcycles, and clear rules. As their relationship deepens, this review considers how the evolving dynamics affect them both. The key question emerges: can a bond defined by rules endure the arrival of authentic, complicated love?

Analog Love: A Break from the Digital World

Unlike many recent releases that spotlight social media and dating apps, Pillion 2025 takes an authentic and nostalgic approach. The film values real, physical experiences, like the scent of leather and the rumble of an engine. As contemporary queer lives frequently unfold behind phone screens, this psychological drama underscores that genuine intimacy grows when we set aside technology.

Pillion 2025 also explores the enduring gay biker scene that preceded modern apps such as Grindr. The narrative highlights how these strong groups of friends create their own forms of safety and belonging. The contrast between Colin’s newfound quiet with Ray and the noise of the outside world is skillfully drawn. The film effectively suggests that releasing control can open the path to happiness.

The Darker Side: Mental Health and Loneliness

Although often humorous, the film also addresses themes of toxic masculinity in queer cinema and the realities of loneliness. Colin’s desire to satisfy Ray is rooted in isolation from his everyday life. His home situation is pleasant but lacks fulfillment, so taking on a submissive role allows him to finally feel recognized.

At the same time, Pillion 2025 depicts the complexities of being a Dom. Ray’s control stems not only from sexual preference but from a drive to shield his vulnerable side. The absence of the traditional “angry parents” subplot enables the film to focus intently on the mental health journeys of its protagonists. This nuanced approach also contributes to the film’s strong example of bisexual representation.

Acting & Reviews

The performances in Pillion 2025 are especially effective. Harry Melling brings remarkable vulnerability to Colin, capturing a man’s discovery of self with sensitivity. Alexander Skarsgård, as Ray, balances imposing presence with unexpected warmth.

Reception for Pillion 2025 has been notably positive, with critics citing its honesty and its significance in bisexual representation in film. Some audiences have commented on the film’s explicit scenes. Overall, the film offers a respectful and honest depiction of the kink community.

Gay-Related Topics: Why We Love the “Submissive”

Pillion 2025 stands out by portraying submission not as weakness, but as an expression of trust and truth. For many gay and bisexual men, these dynamics reflect openness rather than fragility. By presenting a tough biker in a relationship grounded in care, the film challenges toxic masculinity in queer cinema and celebrates the community’s diverse experiences.

Where to Watch Pillion 2025

For those wondering where to watch Pillion 2025, it is now widely accessible. Audiences can stream it via Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video for digital rental, or catch it at independent cinemas across Europe. Seeing it on the big screen is recommended for the full experience.

If You Loved Pillion, You’ll Want to Read These Next:

While Pillion focuses on the quiet trust found in a biker relationship, it isn’t the only film that explores the darker side of obsession. For a different look at how ambition can turn dangerous within our community, we highly recommend checking out our King Cobra movie review, which dives into the true-crime drama of the adult film world. In addition to this, if you enjoy movies where a middle-class protagonist gets sucked into a world of wealth and strange desires, you must see our take on the viral sensation Saltburn.

Furthermore, if you are currently planning a trip and need something to watch on the plane or in your hotel, we’ve put together a curated list of The Best LGBTQ+ Films for Your Vacation. It features stories that are perfect for watching while you explore new European destinations.

Finally, if you are in the mood for more queer psychological drama, don’t miss our latest article on Mean Boys (2025). While Pillion is about the “old school” leather scene, Mean Boys shows the high-tech, viral world of high school cliques. Therefore, reading both reviews will give you a complete look at how gay and bisexual men are being portrayed on screen this year.