US filmmaker Tim Burton has been asked to head the nine-member jury at this year's Cannes Film Festival.

The Edward Scissorhands director said he was looking forward to the role, calling it a "great honour".

"When you think of Cannes, you think of world cinema. And, as films have always been like dreams to me, this is a dream come true," he said.

The panel will decide the winner of the prestigious Palme d'Or for best film. The 11 day event runs from 12 May.

Source: Press Release