Moved to Rome, Italy, after the September 11 attacks and has lived there since.
Is a close friend of fellow director Michael Mann. Ferrara directed
episodes for Mann's TV shows Miami Vice (1984) and Crime Story (1986). Ferrara also
makes private screenings of his films to Mann who, in exchange, gives
him tips and advices on editing.
Is of Irish and Italian descent.
Grew up in Peekskill, NY.
Has two adopted daughters.
Converted to Buddhism in 2007.
Went to high school with Nicholas St. John, who has written many of his
films.
Plays the guitar and the harmonica.
Visited Sarajevo Film Festival (Bosnia, 8/2006)
In March 2006 he visited Argentina to promote his film "Mary" (2005)
at the Mar del Plata International Film Festival.