Onwards and Sideways released in UK cinemas

Parkinson's is getting the Hollywood treatment with the release of the new feature film Onwards & Sideways. 

It follows Tony and Emma as they navigate their Parkinson's diagnosis with the people closest to them. Their approaches couldn't be more different with Tony opting to keep his diagnosis a secret at work, while Emma laps up all the literature and seeks out support groups. However, these strangers soon find more than common ground in unlikely places.

There's no right or wrong way to respond to a diagnosis, and the film brilliantly captures both approaches with sensitivity and humour. Written by our supporter, Paul Mayhew-Archer, the film is based on real experiences, features a supporting cast full of people with Parkinson's and showcases the good and bad of life with Parkinson's. 

Our Chief Executive, Caroline Rassell, was at the premiere and shares her reflections: 

"Onwards and Sideways is as powerful as it is important. While it's filled with humour, it doesn't shy away from the raw reality of Parkinson's. By putting the condition on big screens in cinemas, and into the BBC's Christmas schedule, it will spark so many conversations. 

"Ahead of the premiere, the wonderful Paul Mayhew-Archer told the crowd that  he hoped the film would 'help everyone to learn about Parkinson's and how to treat people with it'. And it really delivers on both. 

"It tackles stereotypes and myths head on, without sugarcoating the truth. It sets out the reality of waiting for 1 appointment with your consultant a year, how symptoms progress, devastating side effects of medication and how a diagnosis reshapes relationships. Crucially, it balances all these struggles with the resilience, humour and deep friendships that unite our brilliant community. 

"The film shows how life does not end with a diagnosis. And to that point, it was a delight to see so many familiar faces from the Parkinson's community on the screen next to Rhys Ifans and Laura Linney. 

"It may not be an easy watch for some people, and that's OK. What it does do is give our community an incredible platform to be seen, heard and understood."

Onwards and Sideways will be in UK cinemas from 6 November and shown on BBC iPlayer and BBC One later in the year. 

To find out more, visit the Onwards and Sideways website.