Following a brief theatrical run—with tickets available in cinemas now—the poignant new British drama Onwards and Sideways has been confirmed as a major centrepiece of this year’s festive television schedule, premiering on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Christmas.
Directed by Academy Award®-nominee John Madden (Shakespeare in Love, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel), the film brings together an exceptional ensemble cast led by BAFTA Award-winner Rhys Ifans (House of the Dragon, Inheritance) and Academy Award®-nominee Laura Linney (Ozark, Love Actually), alongside acclaimed British talent Monica Dolan (Mr Bates vs The Post Office, Sherwood) and Rory Kinnear (The Diplomat, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power).
At the heart of the story are two strangers whose lives collide under extraordinary circumstances. Rhys Ifans stars as Tony Evans, a dedicated deputy headteacher at a primary school, while Laura Linney plays Emma Dretzin, a composer, musician, and single mother of two daughters. Living entirely separate lives, neither knows the other exists—until a startling encounter changes everything. On the exact same morning, both Tony and Emma are confronted with the life-altering diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease.
Rather than dwelling in despair, Onwards and Sideways charts the unexpected, deeply moving friendship that blossoms between them in the wake of the news. Infused with warmth, sharp humour, and resilience, the narrative explores how music, movement, and the transformative power of human connection help them navigate a frightening new reality.
By actively challenging common assumptions about living with a progressive condition, Madden’s latest feature celebrates the human capacity to discover freedom, joy, and genuine hope even during life’s most testing chapters. With its heavyweight creative team and deeply resonant premise, Onwards and Sideways is poised to be one of the most talked-about television highlights of the holiday season.
Onwards and Sideways is in cinemas now, ahead of its television premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Christmas.