Showtimes May 1 - 7:

*OC - These screenings will be shown with open captions

In 1983, John (played by Scott Ellis Watson) was a happy and popular young student — a self-respecting Scottish boy who ate chips twice a day and was star goalkeeper at school. But when he started developing involuntary tics in 1989, his life began to unravel. His parents, who initially prescribed him “a hot bath and an early night,” would eventually force him to eat in a separate room if he said anything they deemed impolite at the dinner table. Without a name for his condition, there wasn’t much compassion from the adults in his community, and by the time he grew into adulthood himself, John (Robert Aramayo) was highly ostracized and almost treated as a second-class citizen. It’s only when he met Dottie (Maxine Peake), a mental health nurse brimming with gentle warmth and kindness, that his life began to change. Rich with vulnerability, Aramayo’s performance has been lauded as “phenomenal” and “heart rending,” even landing him the Best Actor award at this year’s BAFTAs. Supported by a solid cast of side characters, including a mother who can’t cope (Shirley Henderson) and a community centre worker who gives him a chance (Peter Mullan), I Swear is one of those rare films that’s so well-rounded, it’s impossible to dislike.

(UK / 2025 / Directed by Kirk Jones)
R / 2 hrs