United Kingdom, Aug. 25 -- Martin Scorsese is set to become honorary president of Italy's David di Donatello Academy - with the legendary filmmaker saying Italian cinema has been a "constant source of inspiration" throughout his life.

The 83-year-old Goodfellas and Taxi Driver director has accepted the position at the Accademia del Cinema Italiano, which oversees the David di Donatello Awards, Italy's equivalent of the Oscars.

The proposal was made by Italian culture minister Alessandro Giuli, in agreement with the foundation's founding members and president Silvia Calandrelli, with its board now required to formally approve the appointment.

In a statement addressed to Alessandro, Martin said: "Italian cinema has been a constant source...