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Which activities might religious leaders engage in in their leisure hours? Last week, this writer went with a couple of colleagues, both fellow vicars, to watch a new film called I Swear. Based on its preview, I understood that it centered on a man experiencing Tourette's. However, what the author didn’t know was the fact this story was based on a true-life figure: the subject, who was featured in an earlier 1989 documentary and was awarded a royal honor in recognition of their campaigns to educate the public about this syndrome as well as assist fellow sufferers.

Understanding TS

Before that film, many individuals hadn't heard of the condition. Almost four decades afterwards, everybody roughly understands the basics, but it is often treated as a joke – notably on the comedy circuit.

From the trailer, it was evident which the film aimed to balance by both capitalising on the obvious funny moments from a person shouting socially awkward phrases at inopportune times while also working to carry on the protagonist's work in raising awareness in a tactful and considerate approach. I hope it’s not a spoiler to state it was successful in both aspects – however obviously this realization came once the film concluded.

A Startling Movie Encounter

When the feature commenced, a young man seated in the row of us suddenly yelled a series of curse words. For a minute, I thought this was a joke – albeit a joke quite offensive. Yet, it was soon evident that this was an actual individual diagnosed with TS: a teenager accompanied by his dad.

While the story unfolded, so did the young man – and there was no visible response by neither his dad or anyone in the audience. I felt slightly divided. Obviously, it was an important moment for them to watch their undoubtedly incredibly difficult existence portrayed on the big screen, so it was positive which they were having this experience. Yet was it acceptable that I along with other viewers in the cinema could hardly hear the film as a result? Could the venue have been able to organize a special screening – like most of the chains frequently offer for individuals with special needs typically?

A Personal Conflict

It's regrettable to admit which I actually contemplated saying something – not to the parent personally (I’m not heartless), but to the manager of the cinema. However, both of my evidently more charitable colleagues had come to terms with what was happening. Moreover, in the back of my mind there was an fictional yet memorable scene from the TV series when Ricky Gervais’s the protagonist objects regarding a child making too much noise during a meal, ignorant that the child has a genetic condition. He endured the ensuing bad press – and my offence could have been far worse since I knew the teenager simply was unable to control it.

An Eye-Opening Awakening

Luckily, my conscience prevailed then something extraordinary unfolded during the next 90 minutes. First, I simply got used to the previously bothersome noise. Later, as the movie approached its conclusion and viewers witnessed the profoundly empowering effect which Davidson’s special programs offered on many participants, I experienced modest as well as very privileged to be sharing this moment with people with firsthand knowledge not just portrayed on screen – even though the lead actor's acting in the role was superb , in my view, deserving of recognition.

I have experienced similar experiences in the cinema previously – viewing The King’s Speech alongside a friend with a stammer and his speech therapist spouse, alternatively meeting former servicemen from D-Day after the show after Saving Private Ryan – yet this was in a different league. It was like an enhanced viewing, but rather than the chairs moving about or water mists hitting you in the face, the individuals were right next to you stating, “This is more than a movie. This is my truth.” Then cursing. An example phrase.

A Positive Conclusion

So no complaint was made. When the movie concluded, I actually approached and expressed gratitude to the teenager – who was fourteen – along with Mark, dad, for the gift of being there, which certainly enriched the film deeper than it would have been. We then talked for a while then snapped a photo together – when we all shouted a rude word alongside the young man.

Key Takeaways

I would strongly encourage people to view this brilliant film and if you have the chance to find yourself watching alongside with someone like Joe, {don’t be a nim