Onwards and Sideways review – Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney lift solid Parkinson’s drama
The BBC film Onwards and Sideways follows two newly diagnosed Parkinson’s patients, played by Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney, as they navigate the disease’s challenges and find companionship. The film blends realistic medical detail with heartfelt storytelling, offering both insight and emotional reso…
At this year’s Toronto International Film Festival, the BBC drama Onwards and Sideways premiered, offering a nuanced portrayal of life after a Parkinson’s diagnosis. The film stars Rhys Ifans as Tony, a widowed deputy headteacher, and Laura Linney as Emma, an American composer and single mother, both of whom receive the news that they have only a few years before the disease’s symptoms become more severe.
Plot Overview
Tony and Emma are introduced separately to a brisk, disinterested doctor played by Rory Kinnear, who delivers the grim prognosis: five good years before the disease’s progression. Tony keeps the diagnosis hidden at work, fearing job loss, while Emma struggles with the emotional fallout of her new reality. Their paths cross at a Parkinson’s support group, where they initially clash but gradually develop a friendship that blossoms into romance.
The support group is depicted as a “ballet” class, combining exercise with peer support. The film’s writer, Paul Mayhew‑Archer, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2011, brings authenticity to the portrayal of group dynamics and the day‑to‑day struggles of patients. Mayhew‑Archer’s character, a sharp‑tongued realist, offers candid commentary on the disease, describing it as “one humiliation after another” that strips away everything.
Realism and Education
Unlike many medical dramas that focus on celebrity cases, Onwards and Sideways dives into the less‑publicized aspects of Parkinson’s. The film highlights how certain medications can trigger hypersexuality or gambling urges, how deep brain stimulation surgery (DBS) can offer relief, and how the disease can cause severe nightmares that are hard to wake from. These details are woven into the narrative without feeling didactic, allowing viewers to learn organically.
Mayhew‑Archer’s lived experience as a Parkinson’s patient informs the script’s realism. The characters’ emotional arcs—Tony’s shame about revealing his diagnosis and Emma’s frustration when a new drug fails to stop her tremors—mirror the real psychological toll the disease takes. The film’s tone balances the heaviness of the subject with moments of levity, though some critics note that the dialogue can feel safe and occasionally lacks the sharp wit that might have elevated the story further.
Performances and Direction
Rhys Ifans delivers a heartfelt performance as Tony, capturing the character’s isolation and determination. Laura Linney brings depth to Emma, portraying her vulnerability and resilience. The supporting cast, including Monica Dolan as Tony’s nagging sister, adds texture to the narrative, though some roles feel underdeveloped.
Director John Madden, known for his work on Shakespeare in Love and several Jessica Chastain thrillers, steers the film with a focus on substance over style. The BBC production values give it a television feel, yet the story’s universal themes—hope, companionship, and coping—give it broader appeal.
Reception and Release
Critics praised the film’s honest depiction of Parkinson’s and its potential as an educational tool. The soundtrack, composed by Thomas Newman, was noted for its sentimental tone, which some felt undercut the film’s emotional impact.
Onwards and Sideways will be released in UK cinemas on 6 November, with U.S. and Australian dates to be announced. The film’s release follows a festival debut that showcased its capacity to raise awareness about a disease often discussed only in terms of celebrity cases.
Why It Matters
By presenting Parkinson’s through relatable characters and realistic scenarios, the film invites audiences to understand the disease beyond headlines. It encourages empathy and informs viewers about the day‑to‑day challenges faced by those living with Parkinson’s.
Key Takeaways
- Onwards and Sideways offers a realistic portrayal of Parkinson’s, highlighting less‑known side effects of medication.
- Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney deliver strong performances that humanize the disease.
- Writer Paul Mayhew‑Archer’s personal experience adds authenticity to the script.
- The film balances drama with educational content, making it a useful tool for raising awareness.
- John Madden’s direction emphasizes emotional truth over flashy visuals.
FAQ
- What is the film’s release date in the UK? 6 November 2024.
- Who wrote the screenplay? Paul Mayhew‑Archer, a BBC writer diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2011.
- Will the film be available in the U.S.? Release dates are pending; the film will be distributed in the U.S. after its UK premiere.
- Does the film cover treatment options for Parkinson’s? Yes, it touches on medication side effects, deep brain stimulation, and support group dynamics.
Why it matters
The film’s candid exploration of Parkinson’s offers viewers a deeper understanding of the disease’s impact, fostering empathy and potentially guiding those affected toward supportive resources.
Key points
- Realistic depiction of Parkinson’s symptoms and treatment side‑effects
- Strong lead performances by Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney
- Authenticity from writer Paul Mayhew‑Archer’s personal experience
- Educational value for audiences unfamiliar with the disease
- Balanced drama and informative content
- UK release scheduled for 6 November 2024
Frequently asked questions
What is the film’s release date in the UK?
6 November 2024.
Who wrote the screenplay?
Paul Mayhew‑Archer, a BBC writer diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2011.
Will the film be available in the U.S.?
Release dates are pending; the film will be distributed in the U.S. after its UK premiere.
Does the film cover treatment options for Parkinson’s?
Yes, it touches on medication side effects, deep brain stimulation, and support group dynamics.
