Meryl Streep's speech and introduction of Mike Nichols at 2010

“Over the years Mike, many, many people have asked me, especially directors, what is it about Mike? What makes Mike Nichols such a great director? And I always get this little hollow feeling in my stomach which is, you know, lack of anticdote. Because all I really, really remember is being happy. No explanation of our world could be complete and no account or image of it so rich if we didn’t have you. You have made yourself unmistakable. You have created a quality, an essence, that’s composed of wit, grace, outrage, delight, skepticism , and true love. And in doing so you have shown us how a person can become essential. You’re one of our eras essential artists, Mike. You’re one of our essential people. So I thank you for the rich gift of your friendship and we applaud your lifetime of artistry. And speaking for the group, We love you. Ladies and gentlemen, would you please welcome the 2010 Life Achievement Honoree, Mike Nichols.”