Iconic Welsh actor Rhys Ifans takes center stage in the brand-new official trailer for the upcoming feature film Onwards and Sideways, released by Icon Film Distribution. Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker John Madden, the emotional comedy-drama highlights an unexpected friendship between two strangers navigating life-altering news. In the film, Ifans portrays Tony Evans, a dedicated primary school deputy headteacher who receives a life-changing medical diagnosis on the exact same morning as a woman named Emma.
The official trailer offers audiences a poignant first look at Ifans delivering a deeply moving performance. The storyline follows Tony as he initially tries to manage his condition quietly while working alongside his young students. His journey shifts when he encounters Emma, played by three-time Oscar nominee Laura Linney, leading the duo to bond through shared humor, physical movement, and an unconventional ballet class. Written by veteran screenwriter Paul Mayhew-Archer, the narrative centers on human connection, courage, and finding unexpected joy despite daunting circumstances.
Ifans brings a decorated career spanning decades across major feature films, television productions, and theatrical stage plays to this latest project. The BAFTA Award-winning performer first gained widespread international recognition for his standout comedic turn as Spike in the iconic 1999 romantic comedy Notting Hill. Over the years, he has demonstrated remarkable drama and character versatility across multiple genres, earning critical acclaim for his portrayals in films such as Enduring Love, Anonymous, and The Amazing Spider-Man, as well as high-profile prestige television series including House of the Dragon.
Produced by Hilltop Screen and John Gore Studios in association with the BBC, Onwards and Sideways boasts a distinguished creative team behind the camera. Director John Madden, widely renowned for directing the Academy Award-winning film Shakespeare in Love and hit cinematic features like The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, reunites with his frequent collaborator, multi-Oscar-winning composer Thomas Newman, who provides the film's musical score. The feature also includes a stellar supporting ensemble cast featuring Monica Dolan and Rory Kinnear.
Following its first-look trailer release, Onwards and Sideways is scheduled to celebrate its official world premiere at the prestigious 2026 Toronto International Film Festival. The film will subsequently enjoy a wide theatrical release across United Kingdom cinemas starting November 6, before making its broadcast television premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer later in the season. The project represents another compelling leading chapter in Ifans' prestigious acting catalog.
