Kirk Douglas (right) said Valenti had been a close friend

Valenti, a presidential aide who became Hollywood's emissary to Washington and developed the US movie rating system, died on Thursday aged 85.

The funeral was attended by Kirk Douglas, Michael Douglas, Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese.

It was held near the White House where Valenti had started his career.

Douglas tribute

While chief of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), Valenti gained a reputation as a passionate film industry lobbyist, deflecting criticism of Hollywood and fiercely combating threats to the industry such as film piracy.

Valenti headed the film lobbying group for almost four decades

Valenti led the MPAA for 38 years, introducing the G, PG, and R film ratings system. He retired in 2004.

He died of complications resulting from at stroke in March at his Washington home.

Actor Kirk Douglas said: "If you were Jack's friend, your troubles became his troubles," adding, "When the time comes for me to be upstairs waiting for St. Peter to see me, I expect Jack to find me and bring me to the big man."

Also attending were Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic leader of the House of Representatives and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer.