BFF25: I Swear

Australian premiere

Bold, poignant, and infused with unexpected humour, I Swear tells the extraordinary story of John Davidson, a young man whose life takes a sharp turn in the 1980s when he begins to experience the sudden onset of Tourette’s syndrome. At a time when the condition was largely unrecognised and misunderstood, John’s world expands in ways that few could imagine. His unfiltered voice, once seen as disruptive, becomes a rallying point for understanding and change, carving out a space where honesty, individuality, and courage shine through.

Robert Aramayo embodies John with remarkable energy and depth, capturing the raw humanity of a figure who insists on being heard. Maxine Peake, Shirley Henderson, and Peter Mullan deliver performances that illuminate the warmth, wit, and resilience that surround him. Kirk Jones directs with a balance of compassion and sharp observation, weaving together moments of laughter and heartbreak into a resonant cinematic experience.

I Swear is more than a portrait of one man’s journey, it is a powerful affirmation of identity and the transformative power of voice.

Director: John McPhail
Cast: Robert Aramayo, Maxine Peake, Shirley Henderson, Peter Mullan