I Swear is a poignant and uplifting British biopic that blends heartfelt drama with genuinely funny wry comedy. It is based on the true story of John Davidson, a Tourette's sufferer who became ingrained in the public consciousness aged 16 following the hugely acclaimed BBC QED documentary about him in the late 1980's. It is a fantastic and powerful film that fuses drama, comedy, heartbreak and triumph in the vein of British film classics such as the Brassed Off and Pride.
The film charts John's journey from a bullied teenager in 1980s Scotland to becoming a celebrated advocate for Tourette syndrome. Directed by Kirk Jones, the narrative is rich in personal struggle and triumph: young John's uncontrollable tics and outbursts isolate him at school and home, yet he finds allies and purpose, culminating in his MBE-honoured campaign work. The cast are all excellent led, by Robert Aramayo as Davidson (The Rings of Power) who delivers a moving, intelligent performance. Alongside him is a crop of the very best of British acting Talent, Maxine Peake (Theory of Everything) plays his tireless nurse-mentor, Shirley Henderson (Trainspotting) embodies his emotionally fraught mother, and Peter Mullen as his colleague and mentor.
Stylistically the film roots us in smoky, small-town settings and childhood flashbacks, while infusing bursts of absurd humour and emotional clarity that echo John's inner life. Its themes of identity, acceptance, resilience and the power of voice resonate deeply. The film has garnered glowing reviews, across the board and being praised as funny, fierce and full of heart. It is an important, funny, touching and inspirational film, a definite must see and a future British classic in the making!
You might enjoy it if you liked The King's Speech (2010), The Full Monty (1997), Pride (2014) and A Beautiful Mind (2001).
