One Second After, the apocalyptic bestselling novel by Dr. William Forstchen, a longtime professor of history and writing at Montreat College, is officially being adapted into a movie with filming set to begin in September 2025. Forstchen will serve as an executive producer for the film, which is being directed by Scott Rogers. The movie was adapted for the screen by J. Michael Straczynski.
Originally published in 2009, One Second After imagines life in the small town of Black Mountain, NC, following a devastating electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack that wipes out all modern technology. The gripping narrative explores themes of survival, community, and resilience in the real-life setting of Montreat and Black Mountain, where Dr. Forstchen has lived and taught for decades.
The novel quickly gained national attention, rising as high as #11 on The New York Times bestseller list. Though fictional in nature, the novel earned praise from policymakers and national security experts for its chillingly realistic depiction of a modern-day catastrophe.
“I believe the threat of America being hit by an EMP weapon is the single greatest danger to our survival,” Forstchen said in the movie’s official press release by EIN Presswire. “Electricity is the fundamental building block of our society. Everything is predicated on electrification.”
Now, with filming scheduled to begin this fall in Bulgaria, the story is once again bringing a spotlight to Montreat College and the surrounding community.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for Dr. Forstchen,” said Montreat College President Paul J. Maurer. “As a professor, he has inspired countless students, and I can’t wait to see a story that was born right here in Montreat reach a broad audience through the power of film.”