Written and Directed by Kirk Jones
Transmission Films
In cinemas from March 26
Reviewed by Len Power 5 March 2026
Based on the life of John Davidson, a Scottish man with severe Tourette Syndrome, “I Swear” is often fiercely funny but also warm-hearted.
Once regarded as a rare and bizarre syndrome, Tourette’s has been associated with the utterance of obscene words or socially inappropriate and derogatory remarks. It is no longer considered rare.
While there are setbacks, John is eventually able to offer Tourette’s workshops, giving talks to schools and to the police. His work is ultimately recognized with an MBE award presented by Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.
Director and writer of the screenplay, Kirk Jones, bluntly presents the issues faced by Davidson from youth to manhood without resorting to sentiment. He is aided by an excellent cast of actors. Robert Aramayo plays the elder John Davidson in a standout performance that won him a 2025 BAFTA Award. Scott Ellis Watson plays the younger Davidson in an impressive debut performance. There is strong support from Maxine Peake as the mental nurse, Dottie, and Peter Mullan as the elderly caretaker, Tommy.
In the film, it is made clear that people do not know enough about Tourette’s. It ultimately shows that education, understanding and acceptance are essential to enable people living with the condition to have normal lives.
The journey taken with John Davidson is at times horrifying and confronting but it is also unexpectedly funny. This is a strongly moving and optimistic film. “I Swear” is likely be one of the most memorable films of the year.
Trailer: https://youtu.be/zhRgPCUKFiw
