Notting Hill and Love Actually actors star in film about Parkinson's disease
Rhys Ifans, known for his role in Notting Hill, is set to star in a poignant new drama focusing on Parkinson's disease.
The Bafta-winning actor from Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, will appear alongside Laura Linney, famed for her role in Love Actually, in the feature film Onwards and Sideways.
The drama explores the lives of two individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a progressive and incurable neurological condition that impairs the brain's ability to communicate effectively with the muscles.
The screenplay is penned by Paul Mayhew-Archer, co-writer of Vicar of Dibley, who himself was diagnosed with Parkinson's at age 58.
Rhys Ifans, who played Hugh Grant's roommate in Notting Hill and is also recognized for his roles in Twin Town and House of the Dragon, portrays Tony Evans, the deputy headteacher of a primary school in the film.
Laura Linney plays Emma Dretzin, a pianist, composer, and mother of two daughters. The two characters meet following their respective Parkinson's diagnoses.
The film was set and shot in north Norfolk, capturing the environment where the story unfolds.
Joining Ifans and Linney, Monica Dolan, Rory Kinnear, and Paul Mayhew-Archer also feature prominently in the cast.
Mayhew-Archer, who co-hosts the acclaimed Parkinson's podcast Movers and Shakers, reflected on how the disease, despite its challenges, has presented him with unique opportunities.
"The latest of these is the chance to work with the brilliant director John Madden and wonderful actors on bringing this story to life. So, thank you Parkinson's," he said.
"My fingers may fumble, my mouth may mumble and each step I take may result in a stumble. But I cannot grumble."
Oscar-nominated director John Madden, known for films such as Shakespeare in Love and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, expressed enthusiasm about telling Tony and Emma's story.
"It is a story of humour and emotion, of challenge and bravado, of music and dance - transcending the assumptions of a little-understood condition, and triumphing over the odds to find joy, release and love," Madden said.
What is Parkinson's disease?
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by the gradual damage of certain brain regions over many years.
Individuals with Parkinson's may also experience symptoms such as depression, anxiety, loss of the sense of smell, sleep disturbances, and memory difficulties.
According to Parkinson's UK, a new diagnosis occurs every 20 minutes in the UK, with approximately 166,000 people currently living with the condition in the country.
