But even by Alexander Skarsgård's standards, it's hardly the kind of film a Hollywood star of his level usually makes. The currently released "Pillion" is about the unfortunate Colin (Harry Melling), who in his search for love meets the mysterious Roy (Skarsgård), a biker who enters into a dominant BDSM relationship with him.
I thought, "Okay, a kinky gay biker movie..." But I was definitely surprised when I started reading the script; there was such tenderness in it. It's so rare to read something that feels so original.
Choose with care
"Pillion" contains a number of explicit sex scenes that have raised eyebrows. For Alexander Skarsgård, it was important that they made sense for the plot and not just to shock the audience.
I can be put off by sexually explicit scenes in films that are there to shock. We didn't want to go there.
Alexander Skarsgård is really hot right now. In addition to "Pillion," he is currently starring in Charli XCX’s mockumentary "The Moment," which recently premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. "Wicker," a romantic fantasy film in which Skarsgård plays opposite Olivia Colman, also screened there.
And this weekend he hosted the classic "Saturday Night Live" on American television.
Had to fight
He may be one of Sweden's biggest stars right now, but Alexander Skarsgård had to fight for a long time to become established. His international breakthrough only came in his 30s, which is why he now chooses his roles, like "Pillion," with care.
"After quite a few years when I had no choice but to take what came my way, I'm just trying to enjoy the privileged position I'm in now, where I can actually take on projects that I really love," he explains.
And for "Pillion," he also used his star status to get the film made. After Alexander Skarsgård was impressed by the young first-time director Harry Lighton’s vision, he stepped in as a producer and used his name to help secure financing.
It's very difficult to raise money for small, low-budget films, so if I could help in any way, I wanted to do it.
"Pillion" will premiere in Swedish cinemas on February 6th.
Mikael Forsell/TT
Facts: Alexander Skarsgård
TT
Turns 50 this summer. Son of actor Stellan Skarsgård. Has seven siblings, including actors Gustaf, Bill, Valter, Kolbjörn and Ossian.
Had roles in films such as "Wings of Glass", "The Dog Trick" and "Exit" before moving to the US, where his big breakthrough came in the television series "Generation Kill" (2008).
Has had big TV roles in "True Blood", "Big Little Lies" and "Succession". In film he has appeared in "Battleship", "The Legend of Tarzan", "Godzilla vs Kong", "The Northman", "Infinity Pool" and "Lee".
