I’ll admit that for the first 20 minutes of I Swear I thought it was comedy. All kidding aside, the filmmaker’s retelling of Davidson’s life sheds an incredible amount of light on living with Tourette’s Syndrome. Until the last decade or so, those with Tourette’s hid themselves from public shame. The real-life man was savagely beaten, arrested, and almost sent to prison for his words. With Dotty’s help, John learns he deserves to live with dignity, and we, as observers and an audience, need a better understanding of the condition.
“Aramayo is brilliant in the lead role.”
We also delve into the so-called “cures.” Everyone implores John to “control yourself.” Yes, there is medication, but every case is different. For John, he could live like a medicated zombie for the rest of his life. Unless you walk in the shoes of a person with Tourette’s, I’d be cautious of just telling them to take a pill and see a behavioral therapist. It’s clear that if there were an easy cure, they would take it. It’s also clear that no one wants to say the N-Word on a global stage on purpose. The inspiring moment comes in the third act, when John uses the community center as a safe haven for children and teens with Tourette’s. It’s a place where kids can gather, feel normal, and check off bucket list items, like going out in public, that they didn’t think they could do on their own. John also uses these events to speak to parents and show them they are not alone, either.
Aramayo is brilliant in the lead role. I’m no expert on Tourette’s, but his verbal dexterity and physical gymnastics were impressive and convinced me. Tics and outbursts aside, the actor portrays John with the great sweetness and empathy of a teddy bear. It’s more than enough to root for John and feel anger at those who misunderstand his condition.
In the end, no one wants Tourette’s Syndrome. No parent wants to see their child be mercilessly beaten and bullied. No one wants to intentionally say the N-Word on a global stage. I Swear is not looking for pity. It’s looking for empathy and understanding, as if to say there is no such thing as good or bad disabilities.
I Swear screened at the 2026 Palm Springs International Film Festival.
"…not looking for pity. It's looking for empathy and understanding..."
