For his role in, The Godfather, he lived in Italy and learned to speak Italian fluently.
For his role in New York , New York, he learned how to play the Saxophone.
For his role in Cape Fear, he buffed up at the age of 48! Ouch!
For his role in, Raging Bull, he gained 60 lbs, 
For his role in, Taxi Driver, he got a Taxi Driver's license.
The Man's a Perfectionist. Try finding an actor who is willing to put themselves through this!