Pillion (2025)

Pillion

• Wait, why is this actually kind of heartbreaking? I’ll say this: don’t underestimate this film. Not one bit. That was my mistake, and I was surprised by how deep this actually goes. I think I enjoyed it much more in that sense, rather than if I knew the actual meaning and themes behind the story. Without giving too much away, this does a great job of taking a topic (that could be considered taboo) and exploring the dynamics of it. Despite all the physical relations in this film, it doesn’t just show it to please an audience, or satisfy kinks. By the second act, you are completely invested in the two main characters' personalities and traits, rather than just their bodies. The chemistry between Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling was absolutely electric. They are both great physical and emotional representations of their character, and what their character represents. Between the two of them, they show the depths of exploring new love, boundaries, and how to figure yourself out. At first, it seems a bit subtle, but as the film goes on, you explore more regions of their “relationship”, and you kind of test the waters (along with them) of what “love” might be, and how it connects or disconnects two people. I also think what really helps with the storytelling is the pacing and buildup. The film is a fantastic example of how to make each act stronger than the previous one, and genuinely have it take off like a rocket by the end. The entire third act is absolutely amazing, and it’s been a while since I’ve been that invested in the final 30-45 minutes of a film. That’s where the “heartbreaking” part comes in, because there technically is a payoff (to me), though it might not be what you think. Lastly, the soundtrack/score is very solid, and I love the barbershop quartet element. A little cheesy, but it actually works very well. Plus, the inclusion of “Smile” at the end almost had me tearing up. Overall, this is a great queer film that delivers a deep message in a raw, extreme way, and it’s pretty much everything it should’ve been. It just barely misses out on an A rating because it’s not anything phenomenal, but it still works wonderfully. I would recommend it to all romance/drama fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!