Watch John's Not Mad

John's Not Mad is a documentary film directed by Sean O'Connor that tells the story of John Davidson, a young man with Tourette's Syndrome. The film was originally made for British television in 1989 and received rave reviews for its sensitive treatment of this little understood condition. John's Not Mad follows John Davidson's life for over a year as he competes in the World Staring Championships, goes to school, and meets with experts who are trying to understand his condition. The film manages to be both humorous and heartbreaking, as we witness John's struggles with Tourette's both in public and private.

One of the great strengths of the film is how it humanizes John and shows him as a complex, intelligent young man whose personality is much more than just his tics. We see him dealing with the challenges of teenage life and the difficulties of forming relationships, all while dealing with a condition that can make him the target of ridicule.

The film provides a great deal of education about Tourette's Syndrome and the different ways it can manifest. It features interviews with experts who explain the condition and how it can be treated. We also get to see John meeting with other people who have Tourette's, which helps to dispel some of the myths and stereotypes that surround the condition.

John's Not Mad is an emotionally powerful film that does an excellent job of shining a light on Tourette's Syndrome. The film is never exploitative, but instead shows a deep respect for the people who have to live with this condition. It is a powerful reminder that people with Tourette's are just like everyone else, with hopes, dreams, and fears.

As a documentary, John's Not Mad is beautifully shot and expertly edited. The film does an excellent job of capturing John's world and the people in it. The interviews are well conducted, and the pacing is perfect, with each scene building upon the last to create a compelling story.

Overall, John's Not Mad is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding Tourette's Syndrome. It is a powerful film that will leave you both informed and moved. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder that we should always strive to see the person behind the condition.