PILLION: Harry Lighton’s A24 Debut
A24 has set PILLION as the feature directorial debut of writer‑director Harry Lighton. The film stars Harry Melling and Alexander Skarsgård in a story that revolves around an unlikely relationship between a reserved, introverted man and a charismatic biker who takes him on as his submissive.
The synopsis is simple: a timid man’s life changes when he meets an enigmatic motorcyclist and agrees to become his passenger—both on the road and in a more personal, power‑exchange dynamic. Early descriptions suggest the film treats its subject with a serious, character‑driven approach rather than sensationalism.
Melling, known for his roles in The Queen’s Gambit and various period dramas, plays the cautious protagonist. Skarsgård, whose filmography ranges from Big Little Lies to The Northman, takes on the part of the biker—a figure whose physical presence and quiet authority are central to the story.
Behind the camera, Lighton has assembled a crew with solid independent credentials. Director of Photography Nick Morris, Production Designer Francesca Massariol, Editor Gareth C. Scales, Costume Designer Grace Snell, and Composer Oliver Coates have all contributed to the film’s look and sound. Casting was handled by Kathleen Crawford.
The producing team includes Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Emma Norton, and Lee Groombridge—names associated with several notable independent and prestige productions. Their involvement signals a reasonable level of ambition for a first‑time director’s project.
The title PILLION refers to the secondary seat on a motorcycle, but also alludes to the idea of support or dependency. Whether the film leans into that metaphor literally or more abstractly remains to be seen.
PILLION is out now.
Production Credits
Written & Directed by: Harry Lighton
Produced by: Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Emma Norton, Lee Groombridge
Starring: Harry Melling, Alexander Skarsgård
Director of Photography: Nick Morris
Production Design: Francesca Massariol
Editing: Gareth C. Scales
Costume Design: Grace Snell
Music: Oliver Coates
Casting: Kathleen Crawford
Distributor: A24
About the Author
