Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney star in new drama Onwards and Sideways

The BBC has released the official trailer for ‘Onwards and Sideways’, a new feature-length drama starring Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney. Directed by Oscar nominee John Madden and written by Paul Mayhew-Archer, the film follows two strangers, Tony and Emma, who discover they share a common bond after both receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease on the same morning.

The story explores their unexpected friendship through themes of humor, music, and human connection. The film features supporting performances by Monica Dolan and Rory Kinnear. ‘Onwards and Sideways’ is scheduled to have its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 13. Following its festival run, the film will be available on BBC iPlayer, BBC One, and in cinemas, with a theatrical release in the United Kingdom planned for November.