THE search for the biggest, boldest and best new films of the next year has already begun, with the Edinburgh International Film Festival launching its submission process for 2006.

This year’s event was one of the best in recent memory, with Hollywood stars including Elijah Wood, Richard E Grant, Julie Walters and Jason Biggs all bringing their latest films to the city. There was plenty of industry talent as well, with Martin Scorsese’s editor Thelma Schoonmaker, the creator of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer TV series Joss Whedon and legendary screenwriter Paul Schrader all giving talks on their craft.

And with big budget blockbusters including Serenity and Land of the Dead mixing with the latest British classics including On A Clear Day and Brian Jones biopic Stoned, the record crowds had plenty to enjoy.

Organisers hope next year’s festival, the 60th Edinburgh International Film Festival, will be even more memorable, and are already inviting filmmakers to send in their work for consideration.

Shorts, features, documentaries, animation, pop promos and advertising are all welcome and full details can be found on the festival’s website. The deadline for all features and shorts is April 18, while animation and Mirrorball films have until June 9.