The Cinematheque

“Funny, fierce, and full of heart … An absorbing, compassionate film.”

Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian

Set in mid-’80s Scotland, I Swear dramatizes the real-life adolescence and early adulthood of Tourette’s Syndrome advocate John Davidson. A talented soccer player by age 14, John develops tics much to the confusion of his working-class parents. Diagnosed with Coprolalia, the specific type of Tourette’s marked by socially stigmatizing symptoms including involuntary outbursts of obscene words or inappropriate remarks, he is misunderstood by most, including his parents, peers, and colleagues. Though John experiences a series of traumatic events and his vulnerability is palpable throughout the film, moments of connection and humour offset the difficulties of his condition. Robert Aramayo’s award-winning performance warmly embodies the possibilities of empathetic filmmaking, offering a compassionate, tender insight into the challenges of living with Tourette’s.

Best Actor in a Leading Role (Robert Aramayo)
BAFTA Film Awards 2026

Post-screening discussion with Dr. Anton Scamvougeras, director of the UBC Neuropsychiatry Adult Tourette’s Syndrome Clinic.

Moderated by Dr. Harry Karlinsky, series director.