Not even volcanic ash could keep some of the world's most prominent international film stars from arriving in Cannes for the opening ceremonies of the 63rd annual Film Festival. The premiere of Robin Hood Wednesday night was preceded by a star-studded red carpet event attracting fans and photographers from all over the world. Paparazzi camped out overnight on Tuesday to stake out the perfect shot of the evening's festivities.

     Locals and tourists alike endured shoulder to shoulder crowds hoping to catch a glimpse of the film industry's elite. Cars with windows tinted pitch black slowly made their way down the chaotic Croisette, dropping their respective guests at the foot of the red carpet. Among the first to arrive was actor Jean Claude Van Damme, who took his time graciously signing autographs for screaming fans and taking photos with many onlookers. Helen Mirren impressed as usual demonstrating how to be a classic beauty at any age. Eva longoria Parker stunned the crowd with her white-hot off-the-shoulder gown, perfectly laid-back yet appropriate for this particular event. Salma Hayek rivaled Longoria Parker in the best dressed category with a jaw-dropping crimson number that fit like a glove. Also in the   crowd was Tim Burton, this year's honoray President of the Festival. Kate Beckinsale wowed the crowd with her ice-blue gown that was both dramatic and understated.

The crowd erupted in excitement upon each new arrival, and the noisy commotion of the paparazzi made for an energy-charged atmosphere. The grand finale was, of course, the arrival of the cast of Robin Hood. Though they arrived minus director Ridley Scott, his absence hardly seemed to affect the crowd. Cate Blanchett was fresh-faced and beautiful as usual, but her dark gown seemed stiff among the lightweight fabrics and summer-inspired colors that dominated the evening. Russell Crowe evoked an overwhelming response from the crowd, though he rarely cracked a smile for the shouting photographers and fans. The contagious enthusiasm on opening night started the festival off with a bang, and set the stage for the action-packed days to come.

Lauren Ellison and Summer Hawkins