Boatlift 9/11 Wraps Filming, Screenings Set for June in Hollywood Ahead of September 11 Premiere

Short film recounts largest maritime evacuation in U.S. history

Mar. 14, 2026 at 8:04am

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Short film Boatlift 9/11 recounts the largest maritime evacuation in U.S. history, with early Hollywood screenings scheduled this June ahead of a September 11 premiere commemorating the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Why it matters

The film aims to memorialize the unprecedented rescue effort that saw hundreds of thousands of people evacuated from Lower Manhattan by an impromptu fleet of ferries, tugboats, and private boats on 9/11. It also draws attention to the long-term health consequences faced by many 9/11 survivors who developed serious illnesses linked to toxic debris and air contamination.

The details

Boatlift 9/11 was filmed on location in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Manhattan, capturing the atmosphere and urgency of the events that unfolded on September 11, 2001. 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, giving audiences a first look at the film before its official red-carpet premiere on September 11.

  • Filming for Boatlift 9/11 has officially wrapped.
  • The film is expected to be completed in mid-June 2026.
  • The special screening week will take place from June 12 through June 18, 2026.
  • The official red-carpet premiere of Boatlift 9/11 will be held on September 11, 2026, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

The players

Suzanne DeLaurentiis Productions

The production company behind Boatlift 9/11.

Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation (MNITF)

The organization that has joined the initiative to help amplify community engagement and awareness surrounding the project's message of remembrance, resilience, and ongoing health advocacy.

Suzanne DeLaurentiis

The producer of Boatlift 9/11.

Dale Fabrigar

The director and producer of Boatlift 9/11.

Nicole Mendez

The executive director of the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation (MNITF).

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What they’re saying

“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 when the Twin Towers collapsed.”

— Suzanne DeLaurentiis, Producer

What’s next

The official red-carpet premiere of Boatlift 9/11 will be held on September 11, 2026, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

The takeaway

Boatlift 9/11 aims to not only memorialize an unprecedented rescue effort on 9/11 but also to honor the courage and compassion of the people who stepped forward when their city—and their country—needed them most. The film also draws attention to the long-term health consequences faced by many 9/11 survivors, helping to raise awareness and support for ongoing health advocacy.