Born on July 18, 1967, in California, USA, Vin Diesel is known globally as a bona fide action star, and the mega-success of his Fast & Furious films cements his status. He also became a favourite among children after voicing Groot in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. We are so accustomed to seeing Vin Diesel as an action star in franchises like Fast & Furious, Riddick, xXx, and Bloodshot that we often forget his impressive dramatic performances. 'xXx: Reactivated' OTT Release: Vin Diesel and Deepika Padukone's Actioner Now Streaming on Prime Video!

Before we delve into those, let's wish Vin Diesel a very Happy 57th Birthday. Without further ado, here are five performances where Vin Diesel surprised us with his dramatic talent.

1. Saving Private Ryan

Vin Diesel in Saving Private Ryan

In this Steven Spielberg masterpiece, Vin Diesel had one of his early roles as a soldier in Tom Hanks' rescue unit. His character is the first to die, but it is a heartbreakingly memorable scene, showcasing a strong performance from the actor.

2. The Iron Giant

A Still From The Iron Giant

If you enjoyed his voice work as Groot in Guardians of the Galaxy, you should check out his amazing work in The Iron Giant. Directed by Brad Bird of The Incredibles fame, The Iron Giant is a deeply moving tale of friendship between a robot and a little boy. Vin Diesel brings a nuance to the robot's voice that makes the tragic finale even more poignant.

3. Find Me Guilty

Vin Diesel in Find Me Guilty

Find Me Guilty is the movie that made people realise Vin Diesel can do more than flex his biceps and mumble his lines. In this film, Diesel plays real-life mobster Giacomo "Jackie" DiNorscio, who defends himself in America's longest Mafia trial. Directed by Sidney Lumet, the movie also stars Peter Dinklage. Fast X Part 2: Vin Diesel Confirms Franchise Ending, Shares Heartfelt Post On Insta.

4. Boiler Room

Vin Diesel in Boiler Room

This underrated thriller-drama, directed by Ben Younger, explores the malpractices in stock trading. Vin Diesel may not be the main lead, but he delivers a scene-stealing performance as one of the shrewd brokers with a silver tongue.

5. Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk

Vin Diesel in Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk

While Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk may be one of celebrated filmmaker Ang Lee's weaker films, this war drama, based on a novel of the same name, features a talented ensemble cast with some memorable performances. Diesel stands out as the protagonist's commanding officer, whose demise profoundly impacts the main character.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 18, 2024 09:21 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).