
When 'Keep Calm and Carry On' is Not An Option: The 'I Swear' Story
- Sep 22, 2025
'I Swear', the biographical film set in Scotland, packs a punch as it undrapes the unfolding of a man's life with Tourette Syndrome - a neurological disorder causing uncontrollable verbal outbursts and movements. Painted as if it's a vintage television drama, this movie isn't shy about its agenda - educating people about what it's like living with Tourette Syndrome. However, the mission gets sprinkled with humor, creating a fine balance between the gravity of the subject and its wince-causing “Oops!” moments.
The initial scene sets the tone as campaigner and educator John Davidson, played by the charismatic Robert Aramayo, receives the MBE from Queen Elizabeth herself. However, due to an uncontrollable outburst, he ends up spouting "F**k the Queen!” shattering the room's silence. Yikes!
Throughout the movie, we glimpse the 80s and 90s - a time when Tourette Syndrome was largely misunderstood. Davidson attracts various forms of trouble, from crossing paths with the law to invoking the wrath of less understanding individuals. Yet, Davidson's charm gleams through his struggles, thanks to Aramayo's charming portrayal and writer-director Kirk Jones' well-crafted script - meticulously verified by real-life John Davidson.
Backing Aramayo stand veteran actors Maxine Peake, Shirley Henderson, and Peter Mullan, whose empathetic performances resonate deeply. They come together to present a narrative that rings true, especially for the U.K. audience, and perhaps, even strikes a chord with award givers.

Structured in a tale as old as time biopic style, 'I Swear' starts with the present-day events then rewinds back to the mid-'80s. It introduces young teen John in Galashiels, Scotland, leading a normal life with a significant feat – his soccer skills. However, these ambitions teeter during a scout visit due to his emerging tics and a sudden involuntary shout of ‘explicit’ content at the dinner table.
The family's miscomprehension persists even after a diagnosis. John's mother keeps him hidden as an unspeakable secret. By his 20s, John, living on disability benefits, starts to venture outside only for grocery shopping. It is during one of these runs that he rekindles his relationship with an old friend Murray and his nurse mother, Dottie, who recognizes his struggle. As Dottie's project, John starts transforming – landing a janitor’s job at a community center and eventually finding a sense of stability.
As John climbs the ladder, he experiences stumbles distinctive to his condition. But ultimately, he finds recognition in his valuable skills that make him an advocate for individuals like him-showcasing a touching scene with a young girl suffering from Tourette Syndrome.
Director Kirk Jones brings his family-friendly touch to this unique subject, ensuring the story shines above all else. The film is visually accentuated with Scotland's dusky golden hours and soundtracked with the beat of music favorites like 'Blue Monday' by New Order. 'I Swear' spins an authentic and engaging tale of a man’s ascend amidst a storm of disorder, shedding light on what it’s like to have Tourette Syndrome in a matter they could never forget.
