8 films that prove why Robert De Niro is a national treasure

Happy Birthday, De Niro! Yes, that's right, everyone's favorite actor, Robert De Niro turns 72 and we couldn't be happier. The man has a lengthy resume of films that stand the test of time. Everything from "The Godfather," to "Meet the Parents," is essentially a masterpiece.

To commemorate his birthday, we decided to make a list of his best movies and why he is truly a national treasure. Now, we limited it to 8, because otherwise, you would be scrolling for a very long time.

8.) Taxi Driver
Thank you, De Niro, for this movie and for one of the most famous phrases in pop culture history. Directed by Martin Scorsese, De Niro shines in one of his first films. Also, fun fact, "you talkin' to me" was actually improvised by De Niro on the spot!

7.) Meet the Parents
With all of his crime movies, it was hilarious to see De Niro in a comedy like role. Remember, Mr. Focker is always watching you.

6.) A Bronx Tale
Directed by De Niro the story is about a father becomes worried when a local gangster befriends his son in the Bronx.

5.) Raging Bull
Not only was the film directed by the again famed Martin Scorsese, but it goes down as one of the best sports movies of all times. Oh, and it won De Niro his first Oscar.

4.) Casino
​Again, directed by Scorsese (seeing a trend here), De Niro plays a low-level mobster (shocker) tapped to run a big casino.

3.) Silver Linings Playbook
This role was probably quite the stretch for De Niro since he was from New York City and had to play a a Philadelphia Eagles fan, but nevertheless De Niro proves why he is one of the best actors of our time.

2.) The Godfather Part II
Let's just say De Niro won his second Oscar for his portrayal of Michael Corleone, and rightfully so.

1.) Goodfellas
A mob movie like no other, De Niro is just down right amazing as James Conway. There are really no other words for this epicness.

And there you have it! 8 films and reasons why Robert De Niro is a national treasure! If you happen to see Bobby around tell him happy birthday! He will probably reply with the following:

via Goodfilms.com/GIPHY

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