Around the world in nine days

Hip-hop rabbis, children lost in the woods, the crisis in Darfur - these are just a few of the subjects covered in the more than 100 short and full-length films from 30 countries at the Boston International Film Festival. The nine-day festival kicks off tonight at AMC Theatres with a party and program of short films, including the world premiere of a documentary of post-apartheid South Africa called "Road to Ingwavuma" (above), which boasts a strange list of cameos that includes Carlos Santana and Nelson Mandela. Tom Arnold ("This Is Not a Test"), Michael Madsen ("Being Michael Madsen"), and Forest Whitaker ("Ripple Effect") will be attending screenings throughout the festival. Full schedule and ticket prices online. Tonight at 6.$45. AMC Theatres, 175 Tremont St. 866-468-7619. bifilmfestival.com