The BBC has released the trailer for Onwards and Sideways, a feature length drama starring Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney. The production is scheduled for a UK cinema release on 6 November via Icon Film Distribution. Following the theatrical window, the film will broadcast on BBC One and stream on BBC iPlayer.
The plot follows two strangers, a deputy headteacher played by Rhys Ifans and a musician played by Laura Linney, who both receive a diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease on the same morning. The supporting cast includes Monica Dolan as Liz and Rory Kinnear as Professor Ridge. John Madden directed the film and collaborated with composer Thomas Newman. The screenplay was written by Paul Mayhew-Archer.
The project is a co production between John Gore Studios, Hilltop Screen, and the BBC. Hilary Bevan Jones and John Gore serve as producers. The executive production team consists of Hilary Strong, Francis Hopkinson, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Ellie Wood, Helen Flint, Rhys Ifans, John Madden, and Lucy Richer. Alfie Johnson is the co producer.
Kaleidoscope Film Distribution manages worldwide sales for the title. CAA Media Finance provides co representation for the North American market. The film focuses on the friendship between two individuals managing a shared medical diagnosis. Icon Film Distribution handles the UK theatrical release starting 6 November.