A documentary about Tom Rush, the influential folk legend who helped propel Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne into the spotlight will premiere at the New Hampshire Film Festival in the town where he was born, Portsmouth, N.H., on October 17 and 20. TOM RUSH: NO REGRETS features interviews with Rush, James Taylor, Elektra Records’ Jac Holzman, and DJ Dick Summer, plus musical cameos by David Bromberg, Buskin & Batteau, Jonathan Edwards, and Dom Flemons of the Carolina Chocolate Drops.

In the 83-minute film, folksinger, songwriter, and guitarist Tom Rush recalls his illustrious and unconventional career in the new documentary that chronicles Rush’s life, mostly from his own humorous, self-deprecating perspective. It includes exclusive footage of the folk icon retracing his developmental New England footsteps, as well as recent concert appearances at Club Passim (formerly Club 47) and a 50th anniversary celebratory concert at Boston’s prestigious Symphony Hall in December 2012, interspersed with archival footage, photographs, and clippings.

In the film, James Taylor reflects on Rush’s influence. “If it weren’t for you, I would not be here” the singer-songwriter shares.”I definitely walked in the path you shine a light on, and I pattern myself – in no small way – on you … and you’re the greatest!”

Tom Rush: No Regrets is more farming, Ivy League, and acoustic guitars than sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll. A master storyteller, Rush recalls his life, beginning in New Hampshire, through his time at Harvard University spent as a performer and disk jockey, and his first album – a live recording from 1962 – sold out of the trunk of a car.

Rush went on to record original compositions on his albums while also championing unknown songwriters, like Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Jackson Browne, whose material were all included on Rush’s 1968 concept album for Elektra Records, “The Circle Game.”

Tom Rush: No Regrets continues the musician’s association with filmmakers Todd Kwait and Rob Stegman, who produced and directed the acclaimed documentary, For The Love Of The Music – The Club 47 Revival. Kwait and Stegman also produced a DVD and CD of Tom Rush Celebrates 50 Years of Music, now available on Appleseed Recordings and at www.tomrush.com. Other films by Mr. Kwait include Chasin’ Gus’ Ghost with John Sebastian, and Vagabondo! Mr. Kwait’s record company, Kingswood, features a new album from Club 47 star Jack Washington Landron, rising stars Alana Amram and the Rough Gems and Hayley Reardon, and an acclaimed collection of Jug Band music, Jug Band Extravaganza.

Tom Rush: No Regrets will be shown at The Loft on Thursday, October 17, from 2:55 to 4:20 p.m., and at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre on Sunday, October 20, from 12:40 p.m. to 2:05 p.m.. Both screenings will include a “Q&A” segment, including an intimate performance by Tom Rush himself on Sunday.