Hi all, I’m Allan, the director of THE HIGHEST ROAD. I’m posting here because I think it may interest people in this community, and I’d rather be upfront that it’s my film than have anyone think otherwise.

The film is about Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), a rare, progressive disease that gradually takes away coordination and strength. For decades there was no approved treatment. It follows the patients, families, and researchers who spent years fighting for one, and it centers on Kyle Bryant, who has FA and rode a recumbent trike up Umling La, the world’s highest paved road, in the Himalayas.

We spent about two years filming across two continents and five states. I wanted to make something that doesn’t treat the disease as a tragedy or the ride as a victory lap. It’s about the slow, unglamorous work of a community refusing to give up.

We’re having our world premiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival:

Saturday, October 17, 12pm, Lido Theater, Newport Beach, CA
Tickets: https://nbff2026.eventive.org/schedule/6aa2f6e5b59d6eb75f0f6c49

If you’re in Southern California, I’d love to see you there. If not, I’m happy to answer questions about the film, the ride, or the filmmaking in the comments. I’m also curious whether anyone here has a connection to rare disease or ataxia, or has a story about advocating for a treatment.

P.S. I am coming in from out of town. How is that area after last week's flooding?