In 2008, Tomei played Cassidy/Pam, a struggling stripper, in the Darren Aronofsky film "The Wrestler". She appeared in several nude dance numbers in the film. Aronofsky said, "This role shows how courageous and brave Marisa is. And ultimately she's really sexy. We knew nudity was a big part of the picture, and she wanted to be that exposed and vulnerable." Numerous critics heralded this performance as a standout in her career. "The Hollywood Reporter" wrote, "Tomei delivers one of her most arresting performances, again without any trace of vanity." Ty Burr of "The Boston Globe" wrote, "Tomei gives a brave and scrupulously honest performance, one that's most naked when Pam has her clothes on." "Variety" exclaimed, "Tomei is in top, emotionally forthright form as she charts a life passage similar to Pam's." For her performance she was nominated for her first BAFTA, second Golden Globe and third Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.