Marks first time for Mann leading an international festival jury.

US director, screenwriter and producer Michael Mann will lead the international jury for the Competition at hte 69th Venice International Film Festival (Aug 29-Sept 8).

This jury will award the Golden Lion and other official prizes.

He was confirmed to lead the jury by the Board of Directors of the Venice Biennale chaired by Paolo Baratta, based on the recommendation of the new director of the festival, Alberto Barbera.

It marks the first time that Mann has chaired a jury of an international film festival.

Mann’s credits include Manhunter, The Last of the Mohicans, Heat, Collateral and Public Enemies.