From Cannes to Brookline: Harry Lighton Named 2026 Coolidge Breakthrough Artist!

The future of cinema is coming to Brookline this February. The Coolidge Corner Theatre has officially named British writer-director Harry Lighton as the recipient of its 2026 Breakthrough Artist Award. Lighton, the cre ative force behind the critically adored (and delightfully provocative) Pillion, joins an elite roster of past honorees including Jane Schoenbrun and Payal Kapadia.

Why ‘Pillion’ is the Film Everyone is Talking About

If you haven’t yet heard the buzz surrounding Pillion, it’s time to catch up. After a splashy debut at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, the film has been cleaning up on the awards circuit—including a Best Adapted Screenplay win at the Gotham Awards and a DGA nomination for Lighton.
Based on Adam Mars-Jones’ novel Box Hill, the film stars Harry Melling as Colin, a quiet "wallflower" whose life is upended when he meets Ray (Alexander Skarsgård), a leather-clad biker. What follows is a "hilarious, subversive, and sexy" exploration of power and masculinity that manages to be tender without ever losing its edge.

"Harry Lighton’s wonderfully assured debut feature announces a major new voice in cinema," says Beth Gilligan, Deputy Director of the Coolidge. "We are thrilled to honor him."

See It Early: A Special Preview Event

While the film’s official A24 release begins on Friday, February 13, Coolidge fans can get an exclusive first look.

• When: Monday, February 9 at 7:00 PM
• The Event: A special preview screening of Pillion followed by an in-person Q&A with Harry Lighton.
• The Award: Lighton will be formally presented with the Breakthrough Artist Award following the discussion.

About the Artist

Lighton isn't exactly a stranger to the spotlight. His 2017 short Wren Boys earned a BAFTA nomination and premiered at Sundance. He’s also spent time honing his craft alongside director Oliver Hermanus on projects like Living and the Sky/AMC series Mary & George. Up next? He’s penning the highly anticipated biopic of fashion icon Alexander McQueen.

How to Attend

Tickets are currently available for $23 (General Admission) or $20 for Coolidge Members. Given the star power of the cast and the momentum behind the film, this one is likely to sell out fast.
Location: 290 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA.

Tickets & Info: coolidge.org