Chinese film director Jia Zhangke will head the inaugural three-person international jury at the upcoming 40th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

The new jury, known as Platform, opens this year to champion film directors' works from around the world.

The jury also includes Claire Denis of France and Agnieszka Holland of Poland.

The Platform will shine the spotlight on up to 12 films of high artistic merit that demonstrate a strong directorial vision.

A prize of 25,000 Canadian dollars or $20,000 will be given to the best film in the section at the awards ceremony on September 20.

Jia Zhangke was honored with the "directors of the decade" award by the Toronto International Film Festival in 2010.

Founded in 1976, TIFF is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, and it is considered a launch pad for many studios to begin "Oscar-buzz" for their films.

(CRIENGLISH.com July 16, 2015)