Film Scholars Will Reunite At Gibson’s Bookstore In Concord Aug. 7

CONCORD, NH — On August 7, distinguished film scholar David Stewart will visit Gibson’s Bookstore to discuss his new book, “There’s No Going Back: The Life and Work of Jonathan Demme.”

Joining the conversation is Steve Ambra, an instructor at NHTI-Concord’s Community College, who taught Stewart 16 years ago at the college.

Stewart’s book tells the life story of legendary director, Jonathan Demme—best known for his films The Silence of the Lambs, Philadelphia, and more.

Although Stewart has been a fan of Demme’s movies since age 14, he shared that their quality and messages continue to impact audiences today.

“He shared positive aspects of life, but was not scared to point out injustices,” said Stewart.

“I read a lot of materials about film as well as biographies,” said NHTI film studies professor, Steve Ambra. “The thing about David’s book is that it allows Jonathan Demme to come alive.”

Ambra believes that Stewart’s book has a uniquely captivating quality. “I don’t usually get emotional about people in books, but I found myself feeling extremely sad when Demme was reaching the end of his life.”

Stewart first met Ambra as a student at NHTI, where he took every one of his film courses—earning an A in each one. “I latched onto him,” said Stewart. “We were always communicating back and forth — and still do — about our love of cinema.”

“He was different from any other student,” said Ambra. “His assignments were close in quality to a published article, and he found the connections between films.”

After earning his associate degree from NHTI, Stewart went on to complete a bachelor's degree at Plymouth State University. At this point, Ambra began inviting Stewart back to NHTI for guest lectures. Today, Stewart teaches his own film courses at Emerson College, Southern New Hampshire University, and Plymouth State University.

Stewart sees liberal arts courses as an essential part of achieving a well-rounded education. “How we see and perceive is very important,” he said. “I hope that new generations rely on the substantial impact of media literacy.” He credits Ambra’s courses at NHTI with fueling his love for world cinema.

“It’s hard not to forget downtown Concord,” said Stewart. In his days at NHTI, he would visit friends working at Gibson’s or catch a film at Red River Theatres. But for Stewart, the highlight of visiting Concord during this book tour is inviting Ambra to share the spotlight.

“There’s a part of me where I feel I can’t hold a candle to Steve,” he said. “It feels like I’m talking to the same cool dude I met 16 years ago.”

David Stewart will visit Gibson’s Bookstore from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 7. More information is available at gibsonsbookstore.com. Learn more about NHTI’s diverse academic offerings at nhti.edu.

If you are an alum of NHTI-Concord’s Community College, you are invited to come back to campus to celebrate the college’s 60th anniversary and Homecoming Weekend on Sept. 20. Learn more at nhti.edu/alumni.

About NHTI-Concord’s Community College

NHTI is a dynamic public institution of higher learning that provides accessible, rigorous education for students, businesses, and the community. We create pathways for lifelong learning, career advancement, and civic engagement, offering 70+ academic programs to 4,600+ students annually. NHTI is a member of the Community College System of New Hampshire and since 1969 has been accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, a nongovernmental, nationally recognized accrediting agency.

Submitted by NHTI-Concord’s Community College