Filming has wrapped on 'Boatlift 9/11,' a short film chronicling the largest maritime evacuation in U.S. history, which took place during the September 11, 2001, attacks. Shot on location in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Manhattan, the production is now in post-production and is slated for completion in mid-June 2026. This timing aligns with a series of free public screenings 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—the 25th anniversary of the attacks.
Inspired by Jessica Dulong's book 'Saved at the Seawall,' the film recounts the spontaneous evacuation where an impromptu fleet of vessels transported hundreds of thousands of stranded people from Lower Manhattan to safety. Producer Suzanne DeLaurentiis underscored the importance of recognizing those involved. 'We felt it was important to recognize the brave first responders, mariners, and civilians who helped rescue over 500,000 people from the seawall when the Twin Towers collapsed,' DeLaurentiis said. The film stars Sofia Helin, Preslea Elliott, and Hank Northrop, with Dale Fabrigar directing and producing and Tricia Aurand writing. DeLaurentiis and Nathan Samdahl serve as producers.
Beyond commemorating heroism, the film aims to raise awareness about the long-term health consequences faced by many 9/11 survivors, including respiratory conditions, cancers, and kidney disease linked to toxic debris exposure. The Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation (MNITF) and its executive director Nicole Mendez have joined the project to amplify community engagement around remembrance, resilience, and health advocacy. For more details, visit Boatlift911.com, SuzanneDeLaurentiisProduction.com, or MNITF.org.
As the 25th anniversary approaches, 'Boatlift 9/11' seeks to honor the courage and compassion shown during the rescue while drawing attention to the ongoing challenges survivors face, ensuring the legacy of that day is remembered with both historical accuracy and contemporary relevance.
