New Drama Explores Life with Parkinson’s Disease, Starring Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney

Rhys Ifans, known for his roles in Notting Hill and House of the Dragon, is set to lead a poignant new film centered on the challenges of living with Parkinson’s disease. The Bafta-winning actor will star alongside Laura Linney, famous for her work in Love Actually, in the upcoming drama titled Onwards and Sideways.

The feature-length film, written by Paul Mayhew-Archer—best known for co-writing Vicar of Dibley—follows the lives of two individuals who receive a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Parkinson’s is a progressive, non-curable neurodegenerative condition that impairs the brain’s ability to communicate with the body’s muscles.

Mayhew-Archer, who was diagnosed with the disease at age 58, brings a personal perspective to the script. He also co-hosts the award-winning podcast Movers and Shakers. Reflecting on his journey, Mayhew-Archer shared that while the disease has presented significant difficulties, it has also offered unique opportunities. “I wouldn’t have missed them for the world,” he said. He expressed gratitude for the chance to collaborate with director John Madden and the cast, noting, “My fingers may fumble, my mouth may mumble and each step I take may result in a stumble. But I cannot grumble.”

In Onwards and Sideways, which was filmed in north Norfolk, Ifans portrays Tony Evans, a deputy headteacher at a primary school. Linney plays Emma Dretzin, a pianist, composer, and mother of two. The narrative unfolds as the two characters meet and navigate their shared experience with the disease.

The film also features performances by Monica Dolan, Rory Kinnear, and Paul Mayhew-Archer himself.

Director John Madden, an Oscar-nominee known for Shakespeare in Love and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, described the project as a story rich in both humor and emotion. “It is a tale of challenge and bravado, of music and dance,” Madden said. “It transcends the assumptions of a little-understood condition, triumphing over the odds to find joy, release and love.”

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic condition where parts of the brain gradually become damaged over many years. Common symptoms include:

• Involuntary shaking in specific body parts
• Slowed movement
• Stiff and inflexible muscles

Patients may also suffer from depression, anxiety, loss of smell, sleep disturbances, and memory issues. According to Parkinson’s UK, a person is diagnosed with the condition every 20 minutes in the United Kingdom, with approximately 166,000 people currently living with Parkinson’s in the country.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 17:03:53 UTC