Suzanne DeLaurentiis Productions and the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation (MNITF) have announced that filming has wrapped on the short film 'Boatlift 9/11,' which chronicles the largest maritime evacuation in U.S. history—the spontaneous rescue of over 500,000 people from Lower Manhattan on September 11, 2001. The film, shot on location in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Manhattan, is now in post-production and is expected to be completed by mid-June 2026.
To mark the completion, the production team will host a special screening week with free public showings from June 12 through June 18 at Cinelounge on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. These early screenings will give audiences a first look before the official red-carpet premiere on September 11, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the attacks.
Inspired by Jessica Dulong's book 'Saved at the Seawall,' the film tells the true story of how an impromptu fleet of ferries, tugboats, fishing vessels, and private boats mobilized to transport stranded people across New York Harbor after the Twin Towers collapsed. Producer Suzanne DeLaurentiis noted, 'It was a long journey to get this film made. We felt it was important to recognize the brave first responders, mariners, and civilians who helped rescue over 500,000 people from the seawall.'
The film is produced by Suzanne DeLaurentiis and Nathan Samdahl, directed and produced by Dale Fabrigar, and written by Tricia Aurand. It stars Sofia Helin ('The Bridge,' 'Atlantic Crossing'), Preslea Elliott ('Killers of the Flower Moon'), and Hank Northrop ('Days of Our Lives,' 'Criminal Minds').
Beyond honoring the heroism of that day, the film also draws 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. The Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation (MNITF) and executive director Nicole Mendez have joined the initiative to amplify community engagement and awareness surrounding the project's message of remembrance, resilience, and health advocacy.
As the 25th anniversary approaches, 'Boatlift 9/11' aims to memorialize an unprecedented rescue effort and honor the courage of those who stepped forward. For more information, visit Boatlift911.com, SuzanneDeLaurentiisProduction.com, or MNITF.org.
