For the next 10 days, Miami will be known for sun, sea and cinema.

The program includes 35 world premieres.

The plot thickens when Syrian migrants show up instead.

‘Meet the Barbarians’ and ‘The Python Hunt’

‘Meet the Barbarians’ and ‘The Python Hunt’The Film/Artists Equity

In his opening remarks Thursday night, festival executive directorJames Woolleyhighlighted work from a bit closer to home.

We also want to showcase as much South Florida content as possible on the big screen, he said.

Miami has so many different characters, so many big characters who deserve to be on screens.

Filmmaker Ondi Timoner surveys the ruins of her home in Altadena, CA, and (at right) with her family in Miami Beach, FL

Miami Film Festival

The music they created is a fusion of cultures that could only happen in Miami.

Carlos Oliva y Los Sobrinos del Juez will perform as a part of the event.

It comes with a prize of a Panavision equipment rental package worth $60,000.

Nineteen films from around the world, including DelpysMeet the Barbarians, are up for that prize.

Speaking at the opening night screening on Thursday, he said the festival is moving in the right direction.