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Major Film Roles and Collaborations
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, DeVito took on a wide range of film roles, demonstrating his ability to move effortlessly between comedy and drama. Some of his most notable performances during this era include:
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Terms of Endearment (1983)
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Ruthless People (1986)
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Throw Momma from the Train (1987), which he also directed
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Twins (1988), alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger
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The War of the Roses (1989)
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Batman Returns (1992), where he played the villainous Penguin
DeVito’s portrayal of the Penguin in Batman Returns, directed by Tim Burton, is considered one of his most iconic performances. His character brought a dark and compelling dimension to the Batman franchise, and the role remains a fan favorite.
He also starred in Matilda (1996), based on the popular Roald Dahl novel. In addition to acting in the film, he directed and narrated it. His real-life wife, actress Rhea Perlman, co-starred with him in the movie.
Other notable films include L.A. Confidential (1997), The Big Kahuna (1999), Big Fish (2003), Deck the Halls (2006), When in Rome (2010), Wiener-Dog (2016), and Jumanji: The Next Level (2019).
