There’s a question that might arise concerning whether what we're seeing is performance or imitation, yet it's undeniable that Robert Aramayo gives a captivating portrayal. John Davidson is presented as a self-assured and amiable young man from Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, potentially on track for a goalkeeping career, until he develops an involuntary tic at age 14. This is quickly followed by uncontrollable cursing and spontaneous displays of aggression. His parents, whose marriage is already under stress, and his teachers believe he's acting out, while his schoolmates swiftly become tormentors. The story then jumps forward about ten years to introduce a man who now knows he has Tourette Syndrome and continues to live a fairly restricted life, both medically and physically, with his mother (Shirley Henderson, in a powerfully restrained performance). A routine trip to the grocery store with her leads him to reconnect with an old friend, “Murray” (Francesco Piacentini-Smith, who evoked memories of a younger Paul Nichols), to whom he explains some aspects of his condition. Fortunately, his ailing mother, "Dottie" (Maxine Peake), was previously a mental health nurse, makes excellent spaghetti bolognese, and possesses remarkable patience; therefore, she takes on the challenge of helping him reduce his medication, find employment, and perhaps even create an environment where he could potentially live independently. It's this last goal that introduces him to community center caretaker “Tommy” (Peter Mullan), who gives the volatile young man a chance by offering him a job. As he emerges from his previously sheltered existence, John finds himself exposed to a society unfamiliar with his condition and often unwelcoming or even hostile toward its outwardly aggressive symptoms. What follows shows this young man working diligently not only to better integrate into his community but also to help that community—and the wider world—understand more about Tourette Syndrome. The film successfully blends dramatic and documentary elements, and there's a palpable connection between Aramayo, Peake, who creates a characterful, sensitive, and spirited persona, and Mullan, who takes on a somewhat paternal role providing the young man with gentle discipline and direction. Ultimately, though, it’s Aramayo’s performance that deserves recognition from BAFTA for this cleverly written, often humorous depiction of a flawed, charismatic, and fundamentally decent man determined to improve not only his own life but also raise awareness to aid others facing similar misdiagnoses by an anxious and uninformed society. There are moments that prove difficult to witness, but overall it’s a warmhearted and enjoyable film that broadens perspectives and brings smiles.

Source on TMDB