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What might religious leaders do during their free time? Last week, I went with a couple of companions, each other vicars, to watch a new movie titled I Swear. From its preview, it was clear which it focused on an individual living with Tourette syndrome. What the author had not understand was that this story chronicled a real person: John Davidson, who appeared in an earlier 1989 documentary who later earned an MBE for their work to inform society about the condition and support fellow sufferers.

Exploring Tourette's

Prior to this programme, many individuals hadn't been aware of the condition. Nearly four decades since then, most individuals sort of knows the basics, but it’s still seen as a joke – notably in stand-up comedy.

From the teaser, it was evident which this movie was going to try to walk a fine line by simultaneously using the undeniable funny moments of a person uttering socially awkward phrases at awkward situations and striving to continue the protagonist's efforts in promoting understanding in a tactful and considerate approach. It is hoped it’s not revealing too much to state it succeeded on both counts – but naturally this realization came once the film concluded.

A Startling Cinema Experience

As the film began, a teenager seated in the row from us abruptly yelled a series of obscenities. For a minute, I thought it was a gag – although a joke quite offensive. Yet, it quickly became apparent that here was someone genuinely diagnosed with TS: an adolescent with his dad.

While the movie continued, so did the young man – and there was no apparent response by neither his father or anyone in the audience. I felt somewhat conflicted. Clearly, it was an important moment for the boy and his father to experience the undoubtedly very tough existence portrayed in a film, and it was positive which they received this chance. Yet was it acceptable that I and everyone else in the theater could hardly hear the audio because of this? Would the theater not have put on an exclusive showing – as most of the chains regularly do for those with conditions usually?

An Ethical Conflict

I feel embarrassed to confess which I actually thought about saying something – however, not to the parent personally (I am no a monster), instead to staff of the theatre. But, both of the author's clearly kinder fellow vicars seemed to have resigned themselves to the events. Additionally, lurking in my thoughts was the admittedly fictional episode from the TV series when a character's the protagonist complains regarding a young person making too much noise in public, not realizing that the child has special needs. He endured the resultant negative attention – and my offence would have been much more severe since I knew the individual could not couldn’t help it.

A Profound Experience

Thankfully, my better nature won over then something extraordinary happened during the next film duration. Initially, I just got used to the once-intrusive noise. Later, as the movie built to a peak and viewers witnessed the deeply freeing effect that Davidson’s special programs offered for so many people, I experienced awed and extremely fortunate to share this moment alongside individuals who had real experience not just portrayed on screen – although Robert Aramayo’s performance as Davidson was excellent and personally, Oscar-caliber.

There have been similar experiences while watching films previously – watching The King’s Speech alongside a friend with a stammer and his speech therapist spouse, or meeting real ex-soldiers of World War II after the show following Saving Private Ryan – yet this was in a different league. It was like a 4D screening, however instead of physical effects and splashes hitting you in the face, the individuals were right beside you saying, “This isn’t just a movie. This is my truth.” Then swearing. An example phrase.

A Positive Resolution

So no complaint was made. As the film ended, I even approached and expressed gratitude to Joe – who was fourteen – and Mark, his father, for the honor of their presence, that certainly enhanced our viewing more meaningful than it would have been. We then talked for a while and snapped a photo as a group – when the group yelled a curse to support Joe.

Closing Insights

It is urged that people to watch this brilliant film and if you’re lucky enough to end up in the same theater with someone like Joe, {don’t be a nim