Harry Melling, the actor known for his role in the Harry Potter series, has opened up about the surprising and profound lessons he learned from filming the racy BDSM movie Pillion. The 36-year-old star, who appears opposite Alexander Skarsgård in the Bafta-nominated film, shared how the experience transformed him into a more curious person.
Unexpected Skills and Personal Growth
In Pillion, Melling plays Colin, a timid parking attendant who enters a submissive relationship with a biker gang leader portrayed by Skarsgård. The film has made a significant splash, earning a near-perfect 99% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes and an 89% audience score. Hailed as bold, raunchy, and deeply romantic, it has become an unexpected standout this awards season, with praise for Melling's vulnerable performance.
Melling humorously noted that he learned to lick a boot during filming, a skill he joked is useful in everyday life. More seriously, he reflected on how playing Colin left a lasting impact. He described Colin as a courageous and curious character, and some of those traits transferred to his own life. Melling found himself asking more questions and becoming more inquisitive, which he views as a positive outcome from the role.
Authentic Representation and Support
To prepare for the film, Melling worked closely with the Gay Bikers Motorcycle Club, who appeared in the movie and advised on authentic representation of the kink scene. They introduced him to individuals who educated him about practices like bootlicking, making the film feel genuine and respectful. Melling emphasized that their involvement was pivotal in capturing the essence of the subculture accurately.
Critical Acclaim and Awards Recognition
Pillion is based on Adam Mars-Jones's 2020 novel Box Hill and has been praised for its unflinching exploration of BDSM themes. Metro's film critic, Tori Brazier, gave it a four-star review, describing it as graphic and explicit yet delightfully smutty and obscene. The film received an eight-minute standing ovation at Cannes and is nominated for three Bafta awards: best British film, adapted screenplay, and debut feature.
Alexander Skarsgård, whose father Stellen attended the Bafta ceremony, shared that his dad enjoyed the film, which meant a lot to him. Skarsgård expressed how special it was to watch the movie alongside his father and see his positive reaction.
Broader Cultural Impact
The success of Pillion highlights a growing acceptance of diverse narratives in cinema. As the film continues to garner attention, it sparks conversations about intimacy, curiosity, and the human experience. Melling's journey from a Harry Potter actor to a lead in a critically acclaimed BDSM drama underscores the evolving landscape of storytelling in the entertainment industry.
With its blend of raw emotion and artistic bravery, Pillion stands as a testament to the power of film to challenge norms and inspire personal growth. As awards season progresses, it remains a focal point for discussions on creativity and authenticity in modern cinema.
