Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney Star in Parkinson's Drama Onwards and Sideways

Actors Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney lead the upcoming drama film "Onwards and Sideways," a production centered on two individuals whose lives are reshaped by Parkinson's disease. Set in Norfolk, the movie follows teacher Tony, played by Ifans, and musician Emma, portrayed by Linney, after they receive their diagnoses on the same morning. Rather than using the illness as a decorative background element, the screenplay integrates the condition into the core narrative and character actions.

The project was written by Paul Mayhew-Archer, who has lived with Parkinson's disease since his own diagnosis at age 58. Mayhew-Archer drew directly from his personal experiences and the challenges of the condition—which features more than 40 symptoms, including involuntary freezing and physical stiffness—to craft a story that balances humor with tragedy. Directed by John Madden, the film deals with heavy themes such as death, night terrors, and bankruptcy while maintaining an atmosphere that both lead actors described as safe and collaborative.

Despite being paired together for the first time without a traditional chemistry read, Ifans and Linney established an immediate rapport. To prepare for their roles, the actors participated in dance classes to understand recreational therapy options for people living with Parkinson's. Linney connected with David Leventhal, who runs the Dance for PD program at the Mark Morris Dance Group in Brooklyn, while Ifans attended weekly sessions in Wales accompanied by live music and local support animals. Both actors credited these movement sessions with helping them physically embody the symptoms of the neurological disorder.

The physical demands of the roles required extensive preparation with the assistance of professional physiotherapists known as Neuro Heroes, who helped the cast understand the muscular and skeletal impacts of the condition. Ifans noted that learning the physical language of Parkinson's was essential to authentically represent the community of people managing the incurable illness. Linney reflected on the emotional weight of the project, stating that the intense focus required by the subject matter fundamentally changed her perspective.

The narrative avoids sentimental cliches and instead focuses on the complex, authentic humanity of its protagonists. Critics and reviewers have praised the film for successfully balancing its examination of a medical condition with universal themes of love, loss, and resilience. The story accommodates abrupt tonal shifts, moving from lighthearted moments to intense emotional conflicts without losing its narrative focus.

"Onwards and Sideways" is scheduled for release in UK cinemas on November 6, alongside broadcasts on BBC One and iPlayer. While the film has not yet received a widespread release date in the United States, it has drawn considerable attention for its candid portrayal of disability and the strong performances delivered by its lead actors.