Inspirer, illuminator and entertainer of millions of people around the world for over half a century, patriot of his adopted land, he is respected by his peers in the art of motion pictures, having been nominated by them as Best Director more than any other, and awarded their highest tribute three times. His creative ability to explore and elucidate human relationships in all forms upon the screen, both in dramatic and documentary terms, has earned him the Legion of Merit from the United States, the Chevalier de la Legion D'Honneur from France, the Cavaliere Ufficiale from Italy, the D.W. Griffith, Irving Thalberg, and Academy Awards from the American film community, the Great Director Award from the USA Film Festival, and the Life Achievement Award from the American Film Institute. Upon this most insightful and talented artist, in recognition of his considerable contributions to one of mankind's newest arts, Southern Methodist University is pleased to confer the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.