Top 12 Robert De Niro Most Versatile Movie Roles, We Celebrate His 72 Birthday

Warning: Contains Spoilers!

Academy Award winner Robert De Niro turns 72 today and being a strong presence in the entertainment business and acting in films since the late 1960s, he's worked on quite a few films and has shown his range as an actor. What a talented man and just to celebrate the birthday boy and all of his skills and talent. Here is a list of movies that are in no particular order, but truly show just what he can do. Just when we think he's been typecast and we know what to expect, he tends to surprise us!

1. The Godfather: Part II

This is probably his most notable role of all time and it's really what put him on the map for fame.

2. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

This was an impressive step for De Niro and probably a favorite just in the way that De Niro can play someone with OCD who is trying to blame bad Philadelphia Eagles "ju-ju" on his disturbed son played by Bradley Cooper.

3. Sleepers (1996)

This was a heartbreaking tale set in a hospital and an experiment that will break your heart every time.

4. A Bronx Tale (1993)

This was his directorial debut and he captures the feel of the 1950s and 60s and how music can really influence our lives. He showed that he was not only capable of acting, but showing off his talent as a director as well.

5. Cape Fear (1991)

Ah! He's a convicted rapist and murderer! Need we say more? As Max Cady in the Martin Scorsese remake of the original, De Niro proves he doesn't have to be in organized crime to kill.

6. Raging Bull (1980)

A great boxing movie that's not really about boxing at all. It's about temperament and where that can take you. It also has a phenomenally shot fight scene at the climax of the film. 

7. Taxi Driver (1976)

It's always a question as to what made this more popular; the idea that Jodie Foster was 14 and played a prostitute or the violent nature of De Niro's brilliantly played Travis Bickle. Maybe it's a bit of both! What a gritty film that still stands the test of time.

8. The Untouchables (1987)

He returns to what he's great at in 1987 as notorious crime boss, Al Capone. Only De Niro can play that part!

9.  Once Upon A Time in America (1984)

Before he played Al Capone, De Niro showed his acting chops in this historical drama about a Jewish gangster (surprise surprise!) who reflects on his life of crime.

10. Meet the Parents (2000)

This was a time before The Office and we found out that De Niro could really make us feel like he was x-raying us with his eyes and make us feel really awkward right along with Ben Stiller in this comedy about trying to fit in with your girlfriend's family.

11. Goodfellas (1990)

We can't not mention this one even though in this role he is playing another organized crime/mob character involving drug trafficking.

12. Stardust (2007)

Never would you think you'd see De Niro playing a gay, cross-dressing pirate in the adaptation of Neil Gaiman's fantasy novel, prancing around and singing.

Even after all of these and all of the projects not listed, De Niro continues to work on so many projects. Just out later this year will be David O. Russell's Joy, Bus 657 and The Intern. Following those in 2016 will be Hands of Stone and Dirty Grandpa and if that isn't enough Honeymoon Harry and The Comedian were just recently announced as well!

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