Miami Dade College brought the world to South Florida with the 2009 Miami International Film Festival.

Now in its 26th year, the Festival presented a wide range of cinematic narratives, red carpet parties and workshops on the business of filmmaking.

The diverse lineup of 137 films from 40 countries included Valentino: The Last Emperor, an intimate portrait of one of the world’s most important designers; Cachao: Uno más, homage to the enduring influence of a Cuban music master; and stirring dramatic features, such as Prince of Broadway, which earned an Indy Spirit nomination.

This year, MIFF recognized the career achievements of Abel Ferrara and screened a retrospective of the director’s work. Actor Willem Dafoe, who appeared in Ferrara’s Go Go Tales and New Rose Hotel, joined MIFF for the tribute and a screening of Ferrara’s Chelsea on the Rocks.

Also spotted on the red carpet this year were filmmakers Andy García (MIFF selection Cachao: Uno más), Randall Emmett (Righteous Kill), Lissandra Haulic (MIFF selection 8), David Frankel (Marley & Me), Matt Tyrnauer (Opening night selection The Last Emperor) and others.

Miami Dade College and MIFF would like to thank Charles and Fanny Dascal for supporting the opening night.