The production of 'Boatlift 9/11,' a short film recounting the largest maritime evacuation in U.S. history, has officially concluded filming, with post-production expected to finish by mid-June 2026. Filmed on location in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Manhattan, the project captures the spontaneous civilian-led rescue that transported hundreds of thousands of people from Lower Manhattan on September 11, 2001, after traditional evacuation routes were cut off.
To mark the film's completion, free public screenings will be held from June 12 through June 18 at Cinelounge on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, offering audiences an early look before the official red-carpet premiere on September 11, 2026. This premiere coincides with the 25th anniversary of the attacks, serving as a commemorative event that honors the bravery of first responders, mariners, and civilians who participated in the evacuation.
Inspired by Jessica Dulong's book 'Saved at the Seawall,' the film tells the true story of an impromptu fleet of ferries, tugboats, fishing vessels, and private boats that mobilized to rescue over 500,000 stranded individuals. Producer Suzanne DeLaurentiis emphasized the importance of recognizing these unsung heroes, stating that the journey to make the film was driven by a desire to memorialize their actions during a critical moment in American history.
Beyond commemorating the rescue, 'Boatlift 9/11' aims to draw attention to the long-term health consequences faced by many 9/11 survivors, including respiratory conditions, cancers, and kidney disease linked to toxic debris exposure. In support of this awareness mission, the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation (MNITF) has joined the initiative to amplify community engagement around remembrance, resilience, and health advocacy. More information about the foundation can be found at https://MNITF.org.
The film is produced by Suzanne DeLaurentiis and Nathan Samdahl, directed by Dale Fabrigar, and written by Tricia Aurand, featuring actors such as Sofia Helin, Preslea Elliott, and Hank Northrop. As the 25th anniversary approaches, 'Boatlift 9/11' seeks to honor the courage and compassion displayed during the evacuation while fostering ongoing dialogue about the lasting impacts of the attacks on survivors' health and communities.
