TheEdinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced special plans forits 60th festival, to be held August 14-27.

Thefestival is launching a new award for best documentary feature, which willcarry a cash prize.

TheEIFF is programming a special 1970s retrospective this year. They Might BeGiants: Other Voices from the New American Cinema will include films such HalAshby's The Last Detail, Irvin Kershner's Loving, Larry Cohen's God Told Me Too, Arthur Penn's NightMoves,Ivan Dixon's The Spook Who Sat By The Door, Jerry Schatzbert's Scarecrow, Walter Hill's TheDriverand Stuart Rosenberg's The Laughing Policeman.

SeanConnery will serve as the EIFF's patron this year, attending the entirefestival, hosting a 60th anniversary party on August 19 and appearing at theFestival of Politics on August 23.

Thefestival normally runs 12 days but has been extended by two days for its 60thyear.

Theprogramme will be announced on July 12.

Theyear's festival will be the fifth and final for current artistic director ShaneDanielsen and his replacement is expected to be chosen this summer.