Marilyn Monroe is the face of Cannes 2012

Marilyn Monroe has been selected as the icon for the 2012 Cannes Film Festival that kicks off in May, festival organisers say.

A poster for the festival, which is marking its 65th anniversary this year, features a large black-and-white photo of Monroe, who died in Los Angeles in 1962 at the age of 36.

Monroe is seen blowing out a candle in front of "Cannes 65" in giant letters.

"The festival is a temple of glamour and Marilyn is its perfect incarnation. Their coming together symbolises the ideal of simplicity and elegance," organisers said in a statement.

Acclaimed Italian actor and director Nanni Moretti will head the Cannes jury this year.

The festival runs from May 16-27.