In 2008, Curtis starred in "When Love Begins", a romantic drama film where she was paired with Aga Muhlach. In July 2008, Curtis was announced to play the lead role in "Baler", alongside Jericho Rosales. The film was an official entry to 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival. Her performance in the film was critically lauded, leading to a Metro Manila Film Festival Award for Best Actress. This marked Curtis' first acting award. She also received a FAMAS Award for Best Actress nomination, a PMPC Star Award for Movies for Movie Actress of the Year nomination, a Gawad PASADO Award for Pinakapasadong Aktress nomination, and a Luna Award for Best Actress nomination. Also in 2008, Curtis topbilled the television series "Dyosa". She played four different characters in the said series. Because of her role in this series, she was dubbed as the "Dyosa" of Philippine Showbiz.