I Have Tourette's but Tourette's Doesn't Have Me (HBO)

About I Have Tourette's but Tourette's Doesn't Have Me (HBO)

This revealing documentary, released in 2005 by HBO, showcases the lives of children living with Tourette syndrome, a complex neurological disorder. Rather than focusing on the clinical aspect, the film explores personal stories, offering a first-hand account of the daily struggles and triumphs these children face. The intention is to reduce stigma and increase understanding for those living with Tourette's.

Making / Production

The film was presented by HBO Documentary Films in association with the Tourette Association of America. It was directed by Emmy award-winner Ellen Goosenberg Kent and produced by Amy Schatz. The effort behind the making of this documentary was to present an uninhibited view of the lives of children with Tourette's while still maintaining a positive and hopeful tone.

Featured Children

• Jeffrey Blanco: A determined boy who plays the role of himself. Despite his tics and impulsiveness, he demonstrates a relentless spirit and a zest for life.
• Julian Cohen: Willingly shares his challenges and successes with Tourette's Syndrome in the film. Despite his struggles, he is an energetic and creative individual.
• Jonathan Lerman: A prodigious artist affected by autism and Tourette's, he courageously opens up about the syndromes that are a part of his life.
• ... and many other children share their stories.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Not scripted or acted, this documentary presents real life stories of children suffering from Tourette's syndrome.
• In 2006, the film won an Emmy for Outstanding Children's Program.

Awards

The documentary received wide acclaim and won the Emmy award for Outstanding Children's Program in 2006. It was highly appreciated for its frank yet sensitive portrayal of children struggling with a complex neurological disorder.

Quotes

• "I have Tourette's, but Tourette's doesn't have me."
• "I may have tics, but they don't have me."
• "Having Tourette's is not going to stop me."

Soundtrack

• While the documentary does not feature a traditional film soundtrack, the background score adds to the emotional depth of the children's stories, enhancing the viewing experience without distracting from the stories being shared.

Through a close look at the lives of individual children coping with Tourette Syndrome, the documentary empowers its subjects and imparts understanding and empathy to its viewers. It presents a vision of resilience and determination while shedding light on a misunderstood condition.