Pillion Triumphs at 2025 British Independent Film Awards
A biker romance drama takes centre stage at the British Independent Film Awards 2025, with Pillion earning four major honours and sparking conversation across the industry.
The British Independent Film Awards 2025 saw a remarkable evening for the team behind Pillion, as the biker romance drama emerged as the most celebrated production of the night. The film, featuring Alexander Skarsgård and Harry Melling, secured four accolades, including the coveted title of Best British Independent Film. Its success was further cemented by Harry Lighton’s recognition as Best Debut Screenwriter, alongside wins in both Costume Design and Make Up and Hair Design categories.
In the lead-up to the ceremony, the creative minds behind Pillion reflected on their journey in a conversation with Far Out. Skarsgård, discussing the project’s unique premise, shared:
A lot of people were like, ‘Oh, a BDSM, kinky gay biker movie by a first-time filmmaker – was that scary?’. It’s an incredible screenplay. It’s so good.
He went on to praise Lighton’s vision, stating:
And then I had one conversation with Harry Lighton…and he’s extraordinary… I just felt so confident in him and his ability to kind of tell this story in the right way, so I didn’t hesitate for a second.
Celebrating New Voices and Creative Excellence
The awards ceremony, held at London’s Roundhouse on 30 November, also shone a spotlight on emerging talent and fresh perspectives. Akinola Davies Jr was named Best Director for his debut feature, My Father’s Shadow, marking a significant milestone in his career. Meanwhile, Tom Basden and Tim Key were honoured with Best Screenplay for their first full-length film, The Ballad of Wallis Island. The duo’s collaboration was further recognised with the Best Joint Lead Performance award, underscoring their versatility both on and off screen.
Outstanding Performances and Industry Firsts
Elsewhere, Robert Aramayo received the Best Lead Performance award for his role in I Swear, while Jay Lycurgo was celebrated for his supporting turn in Steve. This year’s event also introduced a new category, with The Magic Lantern Cinema in Tywyn, Wales, being named the inaugural Cinema of the Year. The addition of this prize highlights the ongoing importance of independent venues in the UK’s film landscape.
With a blend of established names and promising newcomers, the 2025 British Independent Film Awards offered a snapshot of the industry’s evolving creative energy, with Pillion standing out as a symbol of bold storytelling and artistic ambition.