I Swear is based on the life of John Davidson, a Scottish man who was diagnosed with Tourette’s Syndrome in the early 1980s. John was a popular 12-year-old and promising athlete who suddenly began to develop uncontrollable tics and profane verbal outbursts.
This was well before most people had heard of Tourette’s, so he lived for many years in confusion and shame, misunderstood by everyone around him.
New hope came in the form of a friend’s mother, who helped him regain his self-esteem and a better understanding of his affliction. He eventually became a Tourette’s advocate and public educator.
The tone of the film is unexpected in many places, shifting between real laughs and heartbreaking experiences, but always striking the right balance. It’s a moving and very well-told story, with an amazing lead performance by Robert Aramayo (from Game of Thrones and most recently Palenstine ’38).
I Swear is directed by Kirk Jones.
It plays again on February 8.
The 41st Santa Barbara International Film Festival will take place February 4-14, 2026. Official events including screenings, filmmaker Q&As, industry panels and celebrity tributes will be held throughout the city, including at the historic Arlington Theatre and the new McHurley Film Center. Passes for the 2026 Festival are on sale now at sbiff.org.
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