Scorsese set for BAFTA honor

LONDON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- The British Academy of Film and Television Arts says it plans to honor filmmaker Martin Scorsese at its awards ceremony in London next month.

The Orange British Academy Film Awards is to take place Feb. 12 at the Royal Opera House.

Awarded annually by BAFTA, the fellowship to be presented to Scorsese is the highest accolade bestowed upon an individual in recognition of an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film.

Previously honored fellows include Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, Steven Spielberg, Sean Connery, Elizabeth Taylor, Stanley Kubrick, Anthony Hopkins, Laurence Olivier, Judi Dench and Vanessa Redgrave. Christopher Lee received the fellowship at the film awards show last February.

"Martin Scorsese is a legend in his lifetime; a true inspiration to all young directors the world over. We are delighted to honor his contribution to cinema history and look forward to paying tribute to him," Tim Corrie, chairman of BAFTA, said in a statement Wednesday.

"It is a great honor to be recognized by the British Academy and to join the ranks of such an esteemed group of industry colleagues and friends," Scorsese added.

Scorsese's films include the current release "Hugo," as well as "Goodfellas," "Taxi Driver," "Raging Bull," "Casino," "Gangs of New York," "The Aviator" and "The Departed."

The nominations for the Orange British Academy Film Awards are to be announced Jan. 17. The ceremony will be presided over by actor, author and comedian Stephen Fry.