Incredible Film Behind BAFTA Controversy Finally Has US Release Date (& It’s a Masterpiece)

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During the BAFTA Film Awards, host Alan Cumming had to address the audience and thank them for their patience after interruptions from John Davidson, a campaigner with Tourette’s syndrome who is featured in the award-winning film I Swear. The film itself earned Robert Aramayo the Best Lead Actor award, with many calling his portrayal of Davidson one of the finest performances in recent years, and certainly of 2025.

As a critic, I have to say this film is truly impactful. It follows the incredibly personal journey of a man named Davidson, showing us how his tics began in childhood, leading to a Tourette’s diagnosis at 25, and ultimately, his inspiring work as an advocate. It’s a story that really needs to be seen. And audiences clearly agree – it’s currently sitting at a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, with an astonishing 99% audience score. Originally released in the UK in October 2025, I’m thrilled Sony Pictures Classics is finally bringing this powerful documentary to US screens on April 24th.

During the live broadcast of the event, which was delayed by two hours, viewers heard shouting from the audience, even during the opening remarks by BAFTA chair Sara Putt. People at the event reported that actor John Davidson experienced tics and unintentionally used a racial slur while Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were presenting the award for visual effects to James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash. This incident quickly sparked a strong reaction online, largely due to a lack of understanding about Tourette’s Syndrome. Alan Cumming addressed what the audience was hearing twice, asking for empathy and understanding.

We want to acknowledge that the film contains strong language, which is sometimes a symptom of Tourette’s syndrome. We appreciate your understanding and commitment to creating a respectful environment for all viewers.

He went on to explain that Tourette’s Syndrome is a disability, and the sounds – or tics – people may have noticed are involuntary movements and sounds that the person cannot control. He apologized if anyone was upset by this.

The documentary I Swear tells the story of John Davidson’s life with Tourette’s Syndrome. It builds on earlier films, starting with a BBC documentary made when he was 16, called John’s Not Mad in 1989, that first brought his experiences to light. Davidson has spent years raising awareness and support for others with Tourette’s, and this new film, directed by Kirk Jones (known for Nanny McPhee), is a significant step in that effort. It will be available to US audiences in April and comes with a very strong recommendation.

Robert Aramayo gives a standout performance in I Swear, truly elevating the film to masterpiece status. He’s supported by a strong cast including Shirley Henderson and Peter Mullen (a BAFTA nominee), alongside Maxine Peake. The movie tackles a difficult subject that’s gaining more attention – partly due to shows like Baylen Out Loud – but ultimately offers an inspiring message. Even before its US release, I Swear was a top contender for best film of 2025, and now it’s sure to be considered one of the best of 2026 as well.

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2026-02-23 00:42