MIAMI — It’s that time of year again.

The 43rd annual Miami Film Festival is officially underway, bringing hundreds of films around the world right here to South Florida.

Local 10’s Alexis Frazier sat down with Lauren Cohen, the festival’s director of programming, to give viewers a preview of what to expect.

She spoke about one specific film that is generating a lot of hype.

“We have 160 films from 45 countries. And one of the things I’m excited about this year is this is our largest made in Miami program. The Mecca is one of the films that we’re so excited about,” Cohen said.

The documentary is about Traz Powell Stadium, the birthplace of more NFL players than any other stadium in the country.

Nicanson Guerrier is the director and writer of the film.

“It means so much to have the world premiere at the Miami Film Festival because this is for Miami, by Miami, so there’s no other festival that would make sense for it to debut at,” Guerrier said.

The film is voiced by legendary stadium announcer Mr. William Wilcox, who’s been there for over four decades.

“The Mecca” is one of 12 feature films competing this year.

Frazier asked Cohen how it feels to be the “start of a lot of people’s careers.”

“That’s one of the most gratifying things about this job. I think part of what I view my job as is finding a way to blend star power, people who have already made their careers and are well known, with up-and-coming filmmakers while supporting local film and local talent. This is the next group of filmmakers and people we’re going to see everywhere,” Cohen said.

The festival kicks off today and runs through April 19. The world premiere of “The Mecca” will take place this Sunday in downtown Miami.

There’s even more to experience, including a 25th anniversary celebration of “The Princess Diaries” at Vizcaya.

Click here for more information on the event.

Copyright 2026 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.