Jon Favreau is a well known name in Hollywood, and in recent times he has also become a prominent celebrity in the world of comic book movies. Starting his career as an actor, he is known for his roles in "Swingers," "The Break-Up," and "Chef."

After his directorial effort in the critically and commercially successful 2008 movie "Iron Man," his fame catapulted and he became an iconic figure in Marvel Cinematic Universe further directing "Iron Man 2" and "Iron Man 3." He also served as executive producer of "The Avengers" and "Iron Man 3."

One of the most prominent television roles of Favreau was that of Pete Becker, Monica Geller's boyfriend in season three of television sitcom "Friends."

Favreau's most recent venture includes direction of live action adaptation of Disney's 1967 classic animated movie "The Jungle Book" based on Rudyard Kipling's book of same name.

As the 49-year-old actor-director-producer celebrates his 49th birthday, here is a glimpse at his 5 most popular movies.

1. 'Elf' (2003)

"Elf" is a comedy movie about one of the Santa's elves who realises that he is a human and goes to New York to find his father. Along his journey, he spreads Christmas cheers to depressed people who are frustrated with their lives. The movie starred Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart, Ed Asner and Zooey Deschanel.

2. 'Cowboys and Aliens' (2011)

A science fiction Western movie, the plot of "Cowboys and Aliens" revolves around an outlaw (Daniel Craig), a cattleman (Harrison Ford) and a mysterious traveller (Olivia Wilde) who unite to save a group of residents of a Western town abducted by aliens.

3. 'Chef' (2014)

"Chef" is a comedy-drama movie where Favreau plays a professional chef who quits his job at a popular Los Angeles restaurant after being criticised by a food critic. He returns home to Miami and starts to drive a food truck. Eventually getting back with his ex-wife, he invites their young son to join him while he drives back to L.A. selling Cubanos in various cities.

4. 'Iron Man' (2008)

Based on Marvel comic character of same name, "Iron Man" is a superhero movie starring Robert Downey Jr. in the titular character of Tony Stark/Iron Man, an industrialist and engineer who builds an armour suit and transforms into the technologically enhanced superhero Iron Man. Besides directing, Favreau also played the role of Happy Hogan in the movie.

5. 'Zathura: A Space Adventure' (2005)

"Zathura: A Space Adventure" is a American science fiction fantasy adventure movie that is loosely based on the book "Zathura" by Chris Van Allsburg, who is also the author of "Jumanji." The film stars Josh Hutcherson, Jonah Bobo, Dax Shepard, Kristen Stewart and Tim Robbins.