The official trailer for I Swear, directed by BAFTA-nominated filmmaker Kirk Jones, has just been released and it’s nothing short of powerful.
Set for release in UK cinemas on 10 October 2025, I Swear tells the extraordinary true story of John Davidson, a campaigner, speaker, and inspiration for the Tourette Syndrome community.
For Neupulse, this movie is deeply personal on a few levels. Not only is John’s story close to our mission, but excitingly our technology also features in the film.
A Story That Needed to Be Told
The film charts John Davidson’s journey from a misunderstood teenager in a small Scottish town to an outspoken advocate for people living with Tourette Syndrome.
Diagnosed at age 15, John faced isolation, ridicule, and even the threat of institutionalisation, at a time when very few understood what Tourette Syndrome actually was. His vocal and motor tics started to have a huge impact on his daily life, often misunderstood by peers, teachers, and even healthcare professionals.
But I Swear isn’t just about struggle, it’s about resilience. It’s about the humour, heart, and community that helped John thrive despite the odds. It’s about finding the strength to live loudly and authentically.
A Glimpse Into John’s World
The official trailer, distributed by the film company StudioCanal, introduces us to John (played by Robert Aramayo) as a teenager trying to make sense of his rapidly changing body and mind.
Highlighted in the trailer are situations John finds himself in time and time again. His tics affecting his home life, school, work and his place in the wider world. Amongst all these snapshots we see the full range of emotions that can come with tics. Anger, pain, rejection, humour, and so much more. As a viewer it's a rollercoaster too, being pulled between laughter (“Spunk for milk!”) and tears, the trailer perfectly setting the tone of a film that attempts to walk some fine lines.
The film doesn’t shy away from John’s emotional struggles, but nor does it reduce him to them. This is a full, nuanced portrayal of a young man navigating misunderstanding and self-discovery. His story becomes not only one of survival but of transformation.
A Stellar Line-up of British Talent
Taking on the lead role is Robert Aramayo, best known for his performances in The Rings of Power and The King’s Man. Aramayo reportedly spent time with John Davidson and his family in Galashiels to understand his personality and mannerisms. His portrayal is already earning praise for its depth and sensitivity.
Joining Aramayo are screen icons Maxine Peake as Dottie Achenbach, one of John’s key supporters. Shirley Henderson plays his mother Heather Davidson. The cast is rounded out by Peter Mullan, playing Tommy Trotter, a compassionate teacher who becomes instrumental in John’s life.
This combination of talent, lived experience, and genuine heart gives I Swear the authenticity and emotional punch it needs.
The Vision of Kirk Jones
Director and writer Kirk Jones is no stranger to stories with heart. Known for hits like Waking Ned, Nanny McPhee, and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, Jones brings his signature warmth and understated humour to this emotionally charged script.
Jones was reportedly moved by John Davidson’s story after watching a BBC documentary about him years ago. From there, he worked closely with John and his family to develop a screenplay that honoured their journey while making the story accessible to a wider audience.
TS in the Spotlight
One of the film’s most important achievements is its accurate, layered portrayal of Tourette Syndrome, a condition so often reduced to a punchline in popular culture.
Instead of focusing only on coprolalia (the involuntary swearing many people wrongly assume defines the condition), I Swear digs into the daily experience of living with a neurological disorder that affects speech, movement, and self-image. It explores the impact not just on John, but on the people around him.
For viewers unfamiliar with Tourette Syndrome, the film is an education. For those living with TS, it’s a representation of some of the challenges faced. And for everyone watching, it’s a call to empathy.
Neupulse Part Of The Story
We’re so proud to share that Neupulse plays a role in I Swear. Without revealing too much, we can confirm that our wearable neurotechnology - designed to help manage tics in people with Tourette Syndrome - is featured in the film.
John has been a vital part of our journey at Neupulse. His insight, experience, and unfiltered honesty, along with other members of the TS community, has shaped the way we think about support, accessibility, and the lived experience of those with Tourette Syndrome.
Why This Film Matters
Representation in media matters. When real, honest stories are told, with empathy, humour, and respect, they have the power to shift public perception and inspire real change.
I Swear is more than a film. It’s a testament to what happens when someone refuses to be silenced. It’s a reminder that behind every medical condition is a human being with dreams, fears, jokes, and stories to tell. And it’s a celebration of the progress being made, from outdated treatments and harmful stigma to innovation, visibility and hope.
At Neupulse, we believe in empowering people with Tourette Syndrome, not just with devices, but with dignity. That’s why this film feels so important to us.
Popcorn At The Ready
We can't wait to watch the movie! The trailer for I Swear sets the stage for what promises to be one of the most moving and necessary British films of the year. With a talented cast, an acclaimed director, and a story grounded in truth, it’s a must-see for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to drive change.
We’re incredibly proud that Neupulse is part of this cinematic journey. We’ll be sharing more about how we feature in the film, and what it means for the community, in the coming months.
Let us know what you think of the trailer and what moments stood out most. We’d love to hear from you.
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