Highly-anticipated BBC drama set in Norfolk with “exceptional” cast gets first look at Sherwood star

The new BBC drama, Onwards and Sideways, featuring Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans, has released some fresh photos. We’ve previously seen pictures of Linney and Ifans, and now we’re getting our first glimpse of the other actors in the series.

The drama, filmed in Norfolk, features actors playing Emma Dretzin and Tony Evans. Their characters form an unlikely friendship after a chance meeting dramatically alters both of their lives.

Joining Linney and Ifans in this TV movie are Monica Dolan, known from Sherwood, and Rory Kinnear, who starred in Penny Dreadful. Dolan will portray Liz Evans, while Kinnear will play Professor Ridge.

The new movie will be shown in theaters throughout the UK and US before becoming available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It will also premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival this September.

The film Onwards and Sideways, directed by John Madden and written by Paul Mayhew-Archer, has released new photos after sharing an initial image in May.

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We finally got a glimpse of Rafe Spall and Rory Kinnear’s characters after seeing Linney and Ifans smiling during their walk! Plus, there’s a new shot of Rhys Ifans as Tony – turns out his character is a teacher when we see him at work.

The story centers around Tony Evans, a vice principal at an elementary school, and Emma Dretzin, a musician and composer raising two daughters on her own. They are strangers until a surprising meeting dramatically alters both of their futures.

That same morning, Tony and Emma both receive a Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis. The film tells the story of their friendship, which blossoms in an unexpected way.

This heartwarming story blends laughter and tears, showcasing resilience and bravery through the power of music and dance. It challenges what people think about a rare condition and celebrates finding happiness, freedom, and love against all expectations.

The upcoming film Onwards and Sideways is described as both moving and humorous, but a release date hasn’t been announced yet. With the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) happening September 10-20, we likely won’t have to wait much longer for an update.

When the project was announced in October, producer Hilary Bevan Jones highlighted the fantastic cast and shared her enthusiasm for the script by Paul. She said it was both funny and moving, and made her reflect on life, hoping the film would resonate with audiences.

Onwards and Sideways has no UK release date, but will premiere at the 51st TIFF in September.

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2026-07-20 17:51