Onwards and Sideways (2026)

John Madden's 2026 dramedy 'Onwards and Sideways' offers a gentle, compassionate exploration of life with Parkinson's disease, starring Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans as strangers in rural England who are initially blindsided by their shared diagnosis but gradually drawn together. The film avoids the typical formulaic structure often associated with progressive illness narratives, instead focusing on the spiritual awakening and uplift that can come from navigating the debilitating effects of the body and mind together. Based on the first feature screenplay by veteran TV comedy writer and Parkinson’s activist Paul Mayhew-Archer, known for his work on 'The Vicar of Dibley', the project brings firsthand insight and personal experience to the screen.

The movie was given a gala premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it received praise for its sunny outlook and genuine integrity despite not shy away from the reality of the condition. Critics noted that while there is no uncompromised happy ending for such a disease, the film finds more hope than expected in the possibility of living with Parkinson's alongside someone else. The performances by Linney and Ifans were highlighted as superb, lifting the production above convention through their lovely turns as characters exploring new possibilities.

• The screenplay was written by Paul Mayhew-Archer, marking his debut as a feature screenwriter.
• Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans play two individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's on the same day.
• The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2026.
• Director John Madden succeeded in avoiding the pitfalls of formulaic structures common in illness dramas.