Brighton Screens Onwards and Sideways

Onwards and Sideways has received widespread critical acclaim, with a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 71, indicating generally favorable reviews. This British drama tells the story of Tony Evans, a deputy headteacher, and Emma Dretzin, a musician and single mother, who are both diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease on the same morning, leading to an unexpected friendship. The film celebrates the transformative power of human connection, finding joy, freedom, and hope in life's most difficult moments.

Directed by Academy Award-nominated John Madden, Onwards and Sideways boasts a talented cast, including BAFTA Award-winner Rhys Ifans, Academy Award-nominee Laura Linney, Monica Dolan, and Rory Kinnear. The film's screenwriter, Paul Mayhew-Archer, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2011 and has since become an advocate for research and awareness about the condition, bringing a personal touch to the story. The film had its world premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival as a TIFF Gala Presentation.

The Duke of York's Picturehouse in Brighton will be screening Onwards and Sideways from Monday, 16 November 2026, until Friday, 15 January 2027, at 23:00. This screening will be accompanied by a Q&A with the producer, offering a unique opportunity for audiences to gain insight into the film's production. The film is a comedy-drama, running for 114 minutes, and has been certified 15.

Tickets are with the button beside the article. Onwards and Sideways is a life-affirming film that challenges assumptions and celebrates the capacity to find joy and hope in difficult moments. With its talented cast, personal story, and critical acclaim, this screening event is set to be a memorable experience. The film's themes of humour, courage, music, and human connection make it a compelling watch, and the Q&A with the producer adds an extra layer of depth to the screening.