“The Ride Ahead” was recently named Best NH Feature Documentary, and is a product of the Emmy Award-winning team that includes Concord-based director, Dan Habib. The film will premiere on Monday, December 2 at 6 p.m. at the Bank of New Hampshire Stage in downtown Concord, and then will run December 3-12 at Red River Theatres. Learn more and purchase premiere tickets at rideaheadfilm.com.
Interview with Samuel and Dan Habib
Tell us a little bit about your new film, “The Ride Ahead”.
Dan: The Ride Ahead centers on Samuel, who is in his early 20s during the filming. He is itching to move out, start a career, and find love. “But no one tells you how to be an adult,” Samuel says in the film, “let alone an adult with a disability.”
What can community leaders learn from watching this film?
Samuel: I want everyone to know that disabled people demand respect and rights. And I want other young adults with disabilities to have the same opportunities that I’ve had for health care, inclusive education, college, assistive technology, jobs, making friends, advocacy, and independent living.
Can you share a little bit about yourself and your connection to this work?
Samuel: I’ve lived in Concord my whole life, and I was included in classes, clubs and sports. I had a lot of friends. But things felt confusing after I graduated. I suggested an idea to my dad, who is a filmmaker. How about I interview badass adults with disabilities about their transition to adulthood?
December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. What makes this date important for area businesses?
Dan: We hope December 3—and our film screenings—will create an impetus for businesses to look at their physical space, signage, and interactions with customers to make sure all of Concord is truly welcoming to people of a wide variety of disabilities.