Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans star in new Parkinson's drama Onwards and Sideways

An uplifting and beautifully crafted new British drama is heading to screens this autumn, and it is a production that promises to resonate deeply with the Parkinson’s community. Entitled Onwards and Sideways, this feature length film tackles the realities of a neurological diagnosis with a rare combination of authentic humour, emotional honesty, and profound warmth. Rather than relying on the predictable, heavy medical tropes so often seen in cinema, the story focuses on the resilience found in human connection and the power of finding a community that truly understands. The narrative brings together two entirely different individuals whose lives intersect on one life changing morning. Tony, played with immense charm by Rhys Ifans, is an easygoing primary school deputy headteacher, whilst Emma, portrayed with characteristic grace by Laura Linney, is a talented single mother, pianist, and composer. They meet by pure chance at a clinic in London where they are both diagnosed with Parkinson’s on the exact same day. From this shared moment of shock and vulnerability, the film follows them as they return to their lives and independently begin navigating the early uncertainties, physical changes, and emotional hurdles of their new reality. What makes the film so uniquely authentic is its origins behind the camera. The screenplay was written by Paul Mayhew Archer, a beloved comedy writer and co-host of the Movers and Shakers podcast, who has lived with Parkinson’s himself for over a decade. His deeply personal understanding of the condition infuses the script with an honest wit that avoids pity. Directed by Oscar nominee John Madden, the film captures the daily nuances of living with a tremor and motor challenges, but it pairs those struggles with lightheartedness and hope. A pivotal setting in the film is a local Parkinson’s dance and movement class where Tony and Emma cross paths once more, highlighting how creative expression and community support can help individuals reclaim joy and purpose. The supporting cast adds exceptional depth to the story, featuring stellar performances from Monica Dolan and Rory Kinnear, alongside a warm cameo from Mayhew Archer himself. Audiences will have their first opportunity to see the film when it makes its highly anticipated world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival this September. For viewers across the United Kingdom, the film will arrive in cinemas on the 6th of November before broadcasting widely on BBC One and streaming on BBC iPlayer later in the year. Ultimately, Onwards and Sideways is less a story about an illness and more a celebration of the unexpected friendships and enduring strength that carry people forward. Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/5dEZEEeEQzc?si=hh2JY1kDpZDhihxQ