An acclaimed drama film, I Swear, boasting a perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score and inspired by a real-life story, arrives on Netflix today, March 10. The movie traces the experiences of John Davidson, who grew up with Tourette syndrome in 1980s Scotland.
The Real-Life Inspiration
Davidson received his diagnosis at age 15 and endured accusations of insanity from peers. The film portrays his struggles with a little-understood condition during that era. He later emerges as an advocate, promoting awareness and acceptance of Tourette syndrome. In 2019, he earned an MBE from the Queen for his efforts. While dramatized, Davidson’s story has appeared in prior documentaries, including a 1988 BBC feature and the 2009 film I Swear I Can’t Help It.
Critical and Audience Praise
Critics hailed the biographical drama upon its limited theatrical release last year. It holds a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers share similar enthusiasm online. One commented: “I Swear is an audacious biopic that tackles the roots of a serious topic, leading to some upsetting scenes.” Another praised: “Robert Aramayo delivers a fearless, deeply human performance in this compassionate biopic. It balances humor and heartbreak while shedding light on Tourette syndrome.”
A third viewer raved: “I left the cinema thinking I’d never seen a better movie! It’s perfect from casting to time jumps—a beautifully written story capturing life with Tourette’s, full of goosebumps and humor.” One more noted: “This fabulous film made me laugh and cry. It captures the difficulties of Tourette syndrome with startling authenticity. Superb acting—I came out realizing I’d seen something special.”
BAFTA Ceremony Spotlight
Robert Aramayo won Best Actor at the BAFTAs for his lead role. John Davidson attended the event, drawing attention when his vocal tics, including strong language, aired during the broadcast. Host Alan Cumming addressed the audience: “You may have noticed some strong language in the background. This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people, as the film explores. Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”
During Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo’s stage moment, a racial slur from Davidson’s tics broadcast live, prompting the BBC to remove the stream from iPlayer. Afterward, Davidson stated the broadcaster should have “worked harder to prevent anything that I said” from airing. He noted shouting about 10 offensive words due to his tics. Some view the incident as underscoring the film’s vital message on empathy.
I Swear is now available to stream on Netflix.
