Suzanne DeLaurentiis Productions and the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation have announced that filming has concluded for the short film Boatlift 9/11, which depicts the civilian-led maritime evacuation that became the largest in U.S. history. 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 precede the official red-carpet premiere on September 11, 2026, which commemorates the 25th anniversary of the attacks. The film tells the true story of the spontaneous evacuation that occurred on New York's waterways after September 11, 2001, when an impromptu fleet of vessels transported hundreds of thousands of stranded people to safety.
Producer Suzanne DeLaurentiis emphasized the importance of recognizing the brave first responders, mariners, and civilians who helped rescue over 500,000 people from the seawall. The film is produced by DeLaurentiis and Nathan Samdahl, directed and produced by Dale Fabrigar, and written by Tricia Aurand. It stars Sofia Helin, Preslea Elliott, and Hank Northrop.
Beyond honoring the heroism of that day, the film also highlights the long-term health consequences faced by many 9/11 survivors. Thousands developed serious illnesses, including respiratory conditions, cancers, and kidney disease, linked to prolonged exposure to toxic debris and air contamination. In support of this awareness mission, the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation and executive director Nicole Mendez have joined the initiative to amplify community engagement around the project's message of remembrance, resilience, and health advocacy.
For more information, visit Boatlift911.com, SuzanneDeLaurentiisProduction.com, or MNITF.org. As the 25th anniversary approaches, Boatlift 9/11 aims to memorialize the unprecedented rescue effort and honor the courage and compassion of those who stepped forward during a critical moment in history.
