Funny, honest, and deeply human, I Swear tells the inspirational true story of John Davidson, a trailblazer whose honesty and humour helped the world better understand what it means to live with Tourette Syndrome.
Based on an inspirational true story, I Swear charts the remarkable journey of a Scottish man whose life was irrevocably changed by the sudden onset of Tourette's syndrome. A bright, funny, football-mad lad with everything ahead of him, 15-year-old John Davidson’s life seemingly splinters in 1983 when he develops uncontrollable vocal and physical tics at a time when Tourette’s was barely understood, even by doctors. Feeling ostracized by the world around him — including his own family — he retreats into years of relative isolation, burdened by the anxiety, shame, and loneliness that can often accompany the neurological condition.
Everything shifts when John (now in his late twentiess) meets Dottie, the no-nonsense mother of a former schoolmate, who has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. The bond that forms between them is as unexpected as it is life-changing. With Dottie’s fierce encouragement and unwavering support, John finds belonging, purpose, and the confidence to be himself.
Written and directed with warmth and clarity by Kirk Jones (Waking Ned Devine, TIFF ’98), I Swear strikes a graceful balance between grit and heart without ever veering into sentimentality or sensationalism. Jones never shies away from the hard edges of John’s experiences while also revelling in his cheeky wit and irrepressible charm. Robert Aramayo (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power) delivers a radiant, exuberant performance as Davidson, who serves as one of the film’s executive producers.
A life-affirming story filled with humour and grace, I Swear is a tribute to a man whose resilience helped rewrite the narrative around Tourette’s by embracing its truths and showing the world how to think differently.
JASON RYLE
Screenings
Scotiabank 1
TIFF Lightbox 1
Scotiabank 4
Scotiabank 1
TIFF Lightbox 1