Previous recipients include Steven Spielberg, Jodie Foster, Al Pacino, Julia Roberts, and Matt Damon.
Witherspoon is the fifth woman to be recognized.
It is the greatest privilege of my life.
Credit: Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images
Matthew McConaughey, who co-starred with her inMudand was last years recipient, presented Witherspoon with the award.
When I accepted my Cinematheque Award last year I called what we do a magic trick, McConaughey said.
Thats what youre doing, Reese.
From when I first saw you on screen, Ive been and still am a believer.
A big theme throughout the night was Witherspoons fervor for feminism.
Thats the power of the movie going experience.
