Wenders to head Venice film jury

Wenders began his career as a film critic

Film-maker Wim Wenders is to head the jury at this year's Venice Film Festival, organisers have announced.

The German director, whose work includes 1999's Buena Vista Social Club, won the event's top prize, the Golden Lion, in 1972.

The documentary was a tribute to a group of veteran Cuban musicians who found wider fame through the film.

The Venice Film Festival is due to take place in the Italian city from 27 August to 6 September.

'Strong ties'

The complete line-up for the event will be announced next month. A film by Oscar winners the Coen brothers will launch proceedings.

Their black comedy Burn After Reading co-stars Brad Pitt and George Clooney.

Pitt won best actor at Venice last year for his role in The Assassination of Jesse James.

Wenders, 62, who began his career as a film critic, won the Golden Lion in Venice for his 1984 film Paris Texas.

Three years later, he scooped best director at the festival for Wings of Desire.

Organisers said he had been selected to head the 2008 jury because he had maintained "strong ties" with the event since the 1970s.