I Swear is based on the true story of the life of John Davidson who grew up in Scotland in the 1980’s when there was limited understanding of his Tourette Syndrome condition. This exceptional film is a moving account of Davidson’s life, the public’s reaction to Tourette Syndrome and how he attempts to change that perception.
I Swear begins with older John Davidson (Robert Aramayo) swearing at and accepting his MBE from Queen Elizabeth II, then tracks back to 1983 when young John (Scott Ellis Watson) was twelve years old and living in Galashiels, Scotland, with his working-class family. Young John was a talented football goalie and was starting high school at the Galashiels Academy when John heard that his football coach had arranged for a scout from Glasgow Rangers to come and watch him play. Then he began his uncontrolled ticking and swearing which led to him getting into trouble at school and performing badly for the scout. The onset of his condition also put his parent’s relationship under pressure, resulting in his father leaving their home and a young John, in despair, attempting suicide.
The film then moves to 1996 where older John has been diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome and been prescribed Haloperidol which helps his tics but does not stop them. While shopping with his mother (Shirley Henderson) John reconnects with an old school friend, Murray (Francesco Piacentini-Smith) which leads him to being introduced to Murray’s mother, Dottie (Maxine Peake). He moves in with Murray and Dottie and their family and Dottie helps him to wean off his medication. She also helps him to find a job at the local community centre where he meets Tommy (Peter Mullan). John encounters difficulties caused by his condition but also begins to help others with Tourettes.
I Swear is a return to form for writer and director, Kirk Jones, who keeps this two-hour-long film moving without getting bogged down and he also allows the audience to laugh at some of the outbursts. Scott Ellis Watson does a great job in portraying the turbulence of the changing life of young John. Robert Aramayo is outstanding as the older John. Aramayo spent months with the real John Davidson in preparation for the role. They are well supported by Shirley Henderson, Maxine Peake and Peter Mullan who are also excellent in their roles
I Swear is a touching and sometimes funny account of an extraordinary person which is superbly acted, has an important message for us all and is highly recommended viewing.
Reviewed by Rob McKinnon
Rating 5 out of 5
YouTube trailer: I SWEAR – Official Trailer
I Swear opens in cinemas on 26 March
Distributor: Transmission Films
Exceptional film charting the life of an exceptional person with an important message.
