Dancing Through Diagnosis: Why 'Onwards and Sideways' Could Redefine How We See Parkinson’s
There’s something profoundly moving about a story that turns a devastating diagnosis into a canvas for humor, connection, and unexpected joy. That’s exactly what Onwards and Sideways promises to deliver, and personally, I think it’s about time. Parkinson’s Disease, often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, rarely gets the nuanced treatment it deserves in media. But with Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans at the helm, this film feels like a breath of fresh air—a reminder that even in the face of adversity, humanity’s capacity for resilience and laughter remains unshackled.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the creative team behind it. Director John Madden, known for his ability to weave warmth into complex narratives (The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, anyone?), pairs perfectly with screenwriter Paul Mayhew-Archer, who brings not just comedic genius but also lived experience with Parkinson’s. This isn’t just a film about the disease; it’s a film from the disease, and that authenticity is what sets it apart.
The Power of Unexpected Friendships
At its core, Onwards and Sideways is a story about two strangers, Tony and Emma, whose lives collide after receiving the same life-altering diagnosis. On paper, it sounds like a recipe for melodrama, but what many people don’t realize is how much potential there is in this setup. Parkinson’s isn’t just a physical condition; it’s a shared experience that can forge bonds in the most unlikely places.
From my perspective, the film’s focus on friendship is its greatest strength. Too often, stories about illness center on individual suffering or heroic battles. But this one dares to ask: What happens when two people facing the same challenge find each other? If you take a step back and think about it, that’s a universal theme—we’re all searching for connection, especially in moments of vulnerability.
Humor as a Weapon Against Stigma
One thing that immediately stands out is the film’s emphasis on humor. Parkinson’s is no laughing matter, but laughter itself can be a form of resistance. Mayhew-Archer’s involvement here is no coincidence; his podcast, Movers and Shakers, has already proven that comedy can dismantle stereotypes and humanize a condition often reduced to tremors and rigidity.
What this really suggests is that humor isn’t just a coping mechanism—it’s a tool for education. By making us laugh, Onwards and Sideways might just make us think. And in a world where Parkinson’s is still widely misunderstood, that’s a powerful thing.
The Role of Dance: More Than Just Metaphor
A detail that I find especially interesting is the film’s incorporation of dance. Both Linney and Ifans’ characters share a love for it, and it’s not just a quirky plot point. Dance, with its rhythm and precision, becomes a metaphor for navigating life with Parkinson’s. It’s about finding grace in the chaos, control in the unpredictability.
This raises a deeper question: Can art—whether it’s dance, music, or film—offer a language for experiences that words fail to capture? I believe it can. And in this case, it might just be the key to unlocking empathy for millions of viewers.
Why This Film Matters Beyond the Screen
If Onwards and Sideways succeeds, its impact could extend far beyond the theater. Parkinson’s affects over 10 million people worldwide, yet it remains one of the least discussed chronic illnesses. This film has the potential to change that narrative, not by preaching, but by inviting us into a world where diagnosis isn’t the end of the story—it’s just the beginning.
In my opinion, that’s the true measure of art: its ability to shift perspectives and spark conversations. And with a cast and crew this talented, I’m willing to bet this film will do just that.
Final Thoughts: A Story We All Need
As someone who’s always been drawn to narratives that challenge conventions, Onwards and Sideways feels like a rare gem. It’s not just about Parkinson’s; it’s about the human spirit’s refusal to be defined by circumstance. It’s about finding light in the shadows and joy in the unexpected.
So, when the film premieres at TIFF and eventually makes its way to theaters, I’ll be there—not just as a critic, but as someone eager to see how a story like this can reshape our understanding of life, illness, and connection. Because at the end of the day, isn’t that what great cinema is all about?
