“I Swear” Film Offers Intimate Look at Life with Tourette’s, Earns Recognition for Advocate
GALASHIELS, Scotland – A new biopic, “I Swear,” is garnering attention for its sensitive portrayal of life with Tourette’s syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and vocalizations, often including tics and swearing. The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025, and released in the UK in October 2025, is now available on Netflix in the UK as of March 10, 2026, with a US theatrical release slated for April 10, 2026.
The film centers on the life of John Davidson, beginning in 1970s Scotland, as a young boy (played by Scott Ellis Watson in his acting debut) whose initial facial tics are dismissed as defiance. As the symptoms escalate – spasms and involuntary swearing – Davidson faces misunderstanding and punishment from teachers and family alike. Years pass before he receives a formal diagnosis of Tourette’s.
“I Swear” doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of living with a poorly understood condition. The film depicts the isolation Davidson experiences, ostracized by his peers and struggling to connect with those around him. It also explores the strain placed on his family, particularly his mother, Heather (Shirley Henderson), who grapples with her son’s condition and the disintegration of her marriage. While the film acknowledges the challenges, it ultimately highlights Davidson’s resilience and his determination to advocate for others.
The film follows Davidson into adulthood, portrayed by Robert Aramayo, and his eventual decision to dedicate his life to helping others with Tourette’s. This commitment was formally recognized in 2019 when he was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by the late Queen Elizabeth for his advocacy work.
Director Kirk Jones, known for his work on “Waking Ned Devine,” brings a nuanced approach to the story, with John Davidson himself serving as an executive producer.
The film’s release comes at a time of growing awareness surrounding Tourette’s syndrome. While precise global statistics are difficult to obtain, estimates suggest that around 1 in 360 children are affected by Tourette’s, according to the Tourette Association of America. “I Swear” offers a powerful and moving testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of understanding and acceptance.
[iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vwC2GKi3iA"]
You can learn more about Scott Ellis Watson’s experience portraying John Davidson in this interview following the film’s premiere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNAAaAZlbOY
Distributed by Sony Pictures Classics, “I Swear” is already sparking conversation and is poised to become a significant contribution to the understanding of neurodiversity.
