Suzanne DeLaurentiis Productions and the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation announced that filming has concluded on the short film 'Boatlift 9/11,' which depicts the civilian-led maritime evacuation that rescued over 500,000 people from Lower Manhattan on September 11, 2001. The production, filmed in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Manhattan, is currently in post-production and expected to be completed by mid-June 2026.
To mark the film's completion, the production team will host free public screenings from June 12 through June 18 at Cinelounge on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. These early viewings will provide audiences with their first opportunity to see the film before its official red-carpet premiere on September 11, 2026, which coincides with the 25th anniversary of the attacks. The film is inspired by Jessica Dulong's book 'Saved at the Seawall' and tells the story of the spontaneous fleet of ferries, tugboats, fishing vessels, and private boats that mobilized when traditional evacuation routes were cut off.
Producer Suzanne DeLaurentiis emphasized the importance of recognizing the brave first responders, mariners, and civilians who participated in the rescue operation. The film stars Sofia Helin, Preslea Elliott, and Hank Northrop, and is directed and produced by Dale Fabrigar with writing by Tricia Aurand. Beyond commemorating the heroism of that day, the film also addresses 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 and executive director Nicole Mendez have joined the project to help amplify community engagement and awareness surrounding the film's message of remembrance, resilience, and health advocacy. As the 25th anniversary approaches, 'Boatlift 9/11' aims to honor both the unprecedented rescue effort and the ongoing challenges faced by survivors. For more information about the film, visit Boatlift911.com, and for details about the production company, visit SuzanneDeLaurentiisProduction.com.
