Marisa Tomei’s Career: From ‘As the World Turns’ to ‘Brothers’

Marisa Tomei has been a vibrant and captivating presence on screen for decades. She burst into the public consciousness with a spectacular, Oscar-winning performance that showcased her incredible comedic timing and undeniable charm. With her distinct Brooklyn energy, she brings a warmth and authenticity to her roles that makes her characters feel relatable and alive, whether they are in a comedy, a drama, or a blockbuster.

Throughout her long career, Tomei has proven her immense versatility time and time again. After her early success, she navigated the pressures of Hollywood by consistently choosing interesting and challenging roles in independent films and on stage. This dedication to her craft led to two more Academy Award nominations and a respected career that balances critically acclaimed dramas with beloved roles in some of the biggest movie franchises in the world, proving her enduring talent and appeal.

‘As the World Turns’ (1983–1985)

Marisa Tomei’s first major acting role was on this long-running daytime soap opera. She played Marcy Thompson, a quirky and sometimes troublesome teenager involved in various dramatic storylines.

This early role was an important training ground for the young actress. Working in the fast-paced environment of daytime television helped her hone her craft and gave her valuable on-camera experience before she transitioned to film and primetime TV.

‘A Different World’ (1987)

Tomei was a main cast member during the first season of this popular sitcom, a spin-off of ‘The Cosby Show’. She played Maggie Lauten, one of the roommates of the main character, Denise Huxtable, at the fictional Hillman College.

Her character was a bubbly and energetic journalism student. Though her character was written out after the first season as the show was retooled, her role on such a high-profile series was a significant step in her early career.

‘Saturday Night Live’ (1994)

Fresh off the success of ‘My Cousin Vinny’ and other films, Marisa Tomei hosted an episode of the iconic sketch comedy show ‘Saturday Night Live’. As host, she performed an opening monologue and acted in several comedy sketches alongside the cast.

Hosting the show is a major milestone for many performers, and it gave Tomei the opportunity to showcase her comedic versatility in a live television format, further cementing her status as a popular star.

‘Seinfeld’ (1996)

Tomei made a memorable guest appearance as herself in an episode of the legendary sitcom ‘Seinfeld’. In the episode, titled “The Cadillac,” George Costanza, hoping to set her up with his friend Jerry, tells her that Jerry is a “well-read, interesting, and sensitive” guy, which backfires hilariously.

Her appearance on one of the most popular shows of all time is still fondly remembered. She playfully satirized her own celebrity status and demonstrated her great sense of humor by participating in the show’s iconic brand of comedy.

‘The Simpsons’ (2003)

Marisa Tomei lent her voice to an episode of the iconic animated sitcom ‘The Simpsons’. She voiced Sara Sloane, a famous movie star who falls in love with Ned Flanders after he gives her a tour of a local tourist attraction.

Her character’s relationship with the wholesome Ned Flanders creates a funny and unlikely celebrity romance. Voicing a character on ‘The Simpsons’ is a cultural milestone, and her episode was a memorable one for fans.

‘Rescue Me’ (2006)

Tomei had a recurring role in the fourth season of this gritty drama series about New York City firefighters. She played Angie Gavin, the fiery ex-wife of one of the main characters, who returns and creates chaos in his life.

Her performance was a perfect fit for the show’s intense and often darkly comedic tone. She brought a volatile and unpredictable energy to her character, making her a memorable part of the season’s storyline.

‘Empire’ (2015)

In the second season of this popular musical drama series, Tomei had a recurring role as Mimi Whiteman. She was a billionaire venture capitalist and Forbes list member who becomes an investor in Empire Entertainment, the record label at the center of the show.

Her character was a powerful and manipulative player who got involved in the Lyon family’s dramatic business and personal battles. The role allowed Tomei to play a sharp and stylish corporate shark in the high-stakes world of the music industry.

‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ (2018)

Tomei had a powerful guest-starring role in an episode of this acclaimed dystopian series. She played Mrs. O’Conner, a Commander’s wife who has been exiled to the Colonies, a toxic wasteland where prisoners are forced to work until they die.

Appearing in the season two episode titled “Unwomen,” her character forms a brief but significant connection with another exiled character. Tomei’s performance was praised for bringing depth and humanity to a character living in the show’s brutal and oppressive world.

‘The Flamingo Kid’ (1984)

This coming-of-age comedy was Marisa Tomei’s feature film debut. She had a minor role as a beach club guest named Mandy. The story centers on a young man from Brooklyn, played by Matt Dillon, who gets a summer job at a glamorous private beach club and is drawn into a world of wealth and privilege.

Although her part was small, with only one line of dialogue, appearing in the film was an important first step in her career. It gave her an early experience on a movie set alongside established and up-and-coming actors of the time.

‘Playing for Keeps’ (1986)

In this teen comedy-drama, Tomei played Tracy, one of a group of inner-city high school graduates who try to turn a dilapidated hotel into a rock and roll resort. The film follows their struggles and adventures as they attempt to make their dream a reality.

The movie featured a cast of young actors, and Tomei’s role was part of this energetic ensemble. It was one of her early film roles that contributed to her experience before she achieved her major breakthrough a few years later.

‘Oscar’ (1991)

Tomei played Lisa Provolone in this screwball comedy starring Sylvester Stallone. Stallone plays a 1930s gangster trying to go straight, and Tomei is his dramatic and spoiled daughter who has been lying to him about being pregnant to get his attention.

The film is a fast-paced farce with mistaken identities and slamming doors, in the style of old Hollywood comedies. Tomei’s over-the-top performance as the attention-seeking daughter was a perfect fit for the film’s chaotic energy and showcased her comedic abilities.

‘Zandalee’ (1991)

In this erotic thriller, Tomei played Remy, the best friend of the title character. The story is about a woman who is bored with her stable marriage and begins a dangerous and passionate affair with her husband’s mysterious friend.

The film is set in New Orleans and has a moody, atmospheric tone. Tomei’s supporting role as the concerned friend provided a grounded perspective on the main character’s self-destructive path.

‘My Cousin Vinny’ (1992)

This is the role that made Marisa Tomei a star and won her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She played Mona Lisa Vito, the sharp-witted, motor-mouthed, and fashion-forward fiancée of a bumbling lawyer from Brooklyn, played by Joe Pesci. They travel to rural Alabama to defend his cousin in a murder trial.

Tomei’s performance was a comedic tour-de-force. Her character’s expert knowledge of cars becomes the key to winning the case in a now-classic courtroom scene. Her energy, confidence, and perfect comedic timing made Mona Lisa Vito an iconic and beloved character.

‘Equinox’ (1992)

In this independent drama from director Alan Rudolph, Tomei played Rosie Rivers. The film tells the story of two identical twins, separated at birth and unaware of each other’s existence, who live vastly different lives in the same city.

Tomei’s character is the girlfriend of one of the main characters. The film has a mysterious and dreamlike quality, and her role contributed to the ensemble of quirky characters that populate the city’s strange urban landscape.

‘Chaplin’ (1992)

Tomei portrayed silent film actress Mabel Normand in this biographical film about the life of Charlie Chaplin. Normand was a popular comedic star and director who had a close professional and personal relationship with Chaplin during the early days of his career in Hollywood.

The role required Tomei to embody the spirit of the silent film era. In her scenes with Robert Downey Jr. as Chaplin, she captured the playful energy and underlying sadness of a real-life star from a bygone era.

‘Untamed Heart’ (1993)

In this romantic drama, Tomei starred as Caroline, a kind-hearted waitress who finds herself falling for her shy and mysterious co-worker, a busboy named Adam played by Christian Slater. Adam believes he has the heart of a baboon and is a quiet outcast until Caroline shows him kindness.

Tomei’s performance is full of warmth and compassion. She provides the emotional core of the film, and her gentle, open-hearted character brings the fairy-tale quality of the love story to life.

‘Only You’ (1994)

Tomei played the lead role of Faith Corvatch in this whimsical romantic comedy. As a young girl, Faith was told by a fortune teller that her soulmate’s name was “Damon Bradley.” Years later, just before she is set to marry another man, she impulsively follows a lead on this name all the way to Italy.

The film is a charming and picturesque adventure, with Tomei playing a hopeless romantic on a quest for her destiny. She has wonderful chemistry with her co-star, Robert Downey Jr., who plays another American she meets along the way.

‘The Paper’ (1994)

Directed by Ron Howard, this comedy-drama takes place over a frantic 24-hour period at a fictional New York City newspaper. Tomei played Martha Hackett, the pregnant wife of the paper’s metro editor, played by Michael Keaton. She is fed up with her husband’s stressful, all-consuming job.

Her character represents the pull of a calmer, more stable family life, trying to convince her husband to take a less demanding job. Tomei provided a grounded, emotional counterpoint to the chaotic energy of the newsroom.

‘The Perez Family’ (1995)

In this film, Tomei played Dorita Evita Perez, a vibrant and free-spirited Cuban refugee who arrives in Miami during the Mariel boatlift. To improve her chances of getting a sponsor, she pretends to be the wife of another refugee, forming a makeshift “family” with him and others.

Tomei’s performance is full of life and energy, capturing the character’s optimistic and passionate nature despite the difficult circumstances. She brings both humor and heart to this story about immigrants trying to build a new life.

‘Four Rooms’ (1995)

This anthology comedy film consists of four different segments, each by a different director, all set in a Los Angeles hotel on New Year’s Eve. Marisa Tomei appears in the first segment, “The Missing Ingredient,” directed by Allison Anders. She plays a witch in a coven trying to complete a magical potion.

Her role is part of a strange and funny ensemble of witches who need one last ingredient to resurrect their goddess. The segment is a quirky and stylized piece that kicks off the film’s wild and chaotic night.

‘Unhook the Stars’ (1996)

In this drama, Tomei played Monica Warren, a young, irresponsible single mother who develops an unlikely friendship with her older, more reserved neighbor, played by Gena Rowlands. When Monica needs to leave town suddenly, she asks her neighbor to look after her young son.

Tomei’s portrayal of the troubled but loving mother is both raw and sympathetic. Her scenes with the legendary Rowlands are the heart of the film, showing how two very different women can find common ground and support each other.

‘A Brother’s Kiss’ (1997)

This independent drama is about two brothers growing up in Harlem whose close bond is tested by the difficult choices they make as adults. Tomei played Missy, the girlfriend of one of the brothers who becomes a police officer.

The film is a gritty and realistic look at family ties and the pressures of life in a tough urban environment. Tomei’s supporting role added an important emotional layer to the story of brotherly love and conflict.

‘Welcome to Sarajevo’ (1997)

Based on a true story, this war drama follows a group of journalists covering the siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War. Marisa Tomei played Nina, an aid worker who helps a British journalist in his risky attempt to smuggle a young orphan girl out of the war-torn city.

The film is a powerful and harrowing depiction of the impact of war on civilians. Tomei’s role, though small, is significant, representing the people on the ground who risked their lives to help others amidst the chaos.

‘Slums of Beverly Hills’ (1998)

In this coming-of-age comedy, Tomei played Rita Abromowitz, the neurotic and free-spirited cousin of a teenage girl growing up in a dysfunctional, nomadic family in the 1970s. Rita escapes from a rehab facility and comes to stay with the family, causing even more chaos.

Tomei’s performance is both hilarious and poignant. She perfectly captures the character’s wild energy and underlying vulnerability, making Rita a memorable part of this quirky and heartfelt story.

‘Happy Accidents’ (2000)

Tomei starred in this independent romantic comedy as Ruby Weaver, a woman with a long history of failed relationships. She finally meets a man who seems perfect, except for one thing: he claims to be a time traveler from the year 2470.

The film rests on Tomei’s charming and relatable performance as a woman trying to decide whether the man she’s falling for is the one, or just another one of her “happy accidents.” She brings warmth and depth to a quirky and imaginative love story.

‘The Watcher’ (2000)

In this thriller, Tomei played Dr. Polly Beilman, a psychiatrist who treats an FBI agent, played by James Spader, who is being tormented by a serial killer he once pursued. The killer, played by Keanu Reeves, sends the agent photos of his next victims and challenges him to find them before it’s too late.

Tomei’s character provides a supportive and professional presence for the tortured protagonist. Her role is key to understanding the psychological toll the case is taking on the main character.

‘What Women Want’ (2000)

In this hit romantic comedy, Mel Gibson stars as a chauvinistic advertising executive who gains the ability to hear what women are thinking. Tomei played Lola, a coffee shop clerk with whom he has a brief but memorable fling. He uses his newfound power to impress her.

Her character is a fun-loving and quirky aspiring actress, and Tomei’s vibrant performance makes her a standout in the film. Her scenes with Gibson are some of the most purely comedic moments in the movie.

‘In the Bedroom’ (2001)

For her role in this powerful independent drama, Marisa Tomei earned her second Academy Award nomination. She played Natalie Strout, a single mother whose passionate affair with a younger college student ends in a shocking and tragic act of violence, devastating his parents.

Tomei delivered a complex and emotionally raw performance, portraying a woman caught between her working-class world and her lover’s privileged family. Her portrayal of grief, anger, and despair was hailed by critics as a high point of her career.

‘Someone Like You…’ (2001)

In this romantic comedy starring Ashley Judd and Hugh Jackman, Tomei played Liz, the funny and loyal best friend of the main character. After being dumped, Judd’s character develops a pseudo-scientific theory about relationships, and Liz helps her navigate the messy aftermath.

Tomei provided much of the film’s comedic relief as the sharp and witty sidekick. Her performance was praised for its energy and humor, making her a fan-favorite part of the movie.

‘The Wild Thornberrys Movie’ (2002)

Tomei lent her voice to this animated feature film based on the popular children’s television show. She voiced Bree Blackburn, one half of a villainous couple of poachers who are secretly trying to capture and harm elephants in the Congo.

Voicing an animated villain was a fun departure for Tomei. She and her co-star Rupert Everett created a memorable duo of sneaky and sophisticated antagonists for the adventurous Thornberry family to defeat.

‘Just a Kiss’ (2002)

This indie romantic comedy explores the chaotic chain reaction that follows a single kiss between a man and his girlfriend’s best friend. Tomei played Paula, a modern dancer who witnesses the kiss and becomes entangled in the ensuing romantic mess.

The film has a unique, fast-paced style, and Tomei’s quirky character adds to its offbeat charm. Her performance is part of a talented ensemble cast navigating the complexities of modern love and friendship.

‘The Guru’ (2002)

In this musical romantic comedy, Tomei played Lexi, a New Age spiritual advisor. The film is about a dance instructor from India who comes to America and is mistakenly hailed as a spiritual guru, becoming a huge celebrity.

Tomei’s character is one of the many eccentric people he encounters in the world of New York’s elite. She brings a fun, satirical energy to her role as the trendy and slightly spacey guru.

‘Anger Management’ (2003)

In this blockbuster comedy, Adam Sandler plays a mild-mannered man who is wrongly sentenced to an anger management program run by an aggressive and unorthodox therapist, played by Jack Nicholson. Tomei played Linda, Sandler’s supportive and loving girlfriend who has to put up with his increasingly bizarre behavior.

As the good-hearted girlfriend, Tomei provided the film with its emotional center. She played the straight role opposite the chaotic comedy of Sandler and Nicholson, representing the stable life her character is hoping to build.

‘Alfie’ (2004)

This film is a remake of the 1966 classic, with Jude Law taking on the title role of a charming and womanizing New Yorker. Tomei played Julie, a single mother and one of Alfie’s many lovers. She represents what could be a real, stable relationship, but one he is too immature to commit to.

Tomei’s performance brought depth and emotional weight to her role. Her portrayal of a smart, loving woman who ultimately refuses to be treated poorly by Alfie is one of the most powerful and memorable parts of the film.

‘Loverboy’ (2005)

In this drama, Tomei played Sybil Stoll. The film centers on a woman who, after a difficult childhood, becomes obsessed with providing the perfect, all-consuming love for her young son. Her intense devotion eventually becomes suffocating and dangerous.

Tomei is part of a strong supporting cast in this complex psychological film. The movie explores the fine line between maternal love and destructive obsession.

‘Marilyn Hotchkiss’ Ballroom Dancing & Charm School’ (2005)

Tomei played Meredith Morrison in this romantic drama. The story is about a grieving man who, in fulfilling a promise to a dying stranger, finds himself joining a ballroom dancing class. There, he and other lonely people find healing and connection through dance.

Tomei’s character is one of the dance students who is dealing with her own past traumas. The film is a sweet and heartfelt story about the power of human connection, with the dance sequences at its core.

‘Factotum’ (2005)

This film is an adaptation of a novel by the writer Charles Bukowski, starring Matt Dillon as Bukowski’s literary alter ego, Henry Chinaski. Tomei played Laura, one of the many women who drift in and out of Henry’s life of drinking, gambling, and writing.

The film captures the gritty and aimless mood of Bukowski’s work. Tomei’s performance is raw and realistic, portraying a woman who finds a brief but intense connection with a fellow soul on the margins of society.

‘Danika’ (2006)

In this psychological thriller, Tomei starred in the title role as Danika, a mother whose anxieties about the dangers of the modern world spiral into terrifying and disturbing hallucinations. She struggles to distinguish between her fears and reality, which puts her family at risk.

This was a dark and demanding lead role for Tomei. Her performance is a powerful portrayal of a woman’s mental breakdown, driven by an overwhelming and paranoid fear for her children’s safety.

‘Wild Hogs’ (2007)

In this hit comedy, Tomei played Maggie, a diner owner in a small New Mexico town. Her life is shaken up when four suburban middle-aged men on a motorcycle trip, played by Tim Allen, John Travolta, Martin Lawrence, and William H. Macy, roll into town and run into trouble with a real biker gang.

Maggie serves as the love interest for Tim Allen’s character and is a strong, independent woman who isn’t afraid to stand up to the tough bikers. Tomei brought warmth and charm to the film, holding her own in a movie dominated by male stars.

‘Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead’ (2007)

In this dark and intense crime thriller directed by Sidney Lumet, Tomei played Gina Hanson. She is the wife of a desperate real estate executive, played by Philip Seymour Hoffman, who convinces his younger brother to help him rob their own parents’ jewelry store, with disastrous consequences.

Tomei’s character is caught in the middle of the family’s toxic dynamic, having an affair with her husband’s brother. Her performance is complex and heartbreaking, contributing to the film’s tragic and suspenseful tone.

‘War, Inc.’ (2008)

This political satire stars John Cusack as a cynical assassin sent to a fictional Middle Eastern country to kill an oil minister. Marisa Tomei played Natalie Hegalhuzen, a sharp and determined journalist who is trying to expose the corporate and political corruption behind the war.

Her character is smart, brave, and driven by her principles. Tomei’s performance provided a strong moral center in a film that satirizes the absurdities of war and globalization.

‘The Wrestler’ (2008)

Marisa Tomei earned her third Academy Award nomination for her role as Cassidy, an aging stripper and single mother. She develops a complicated relationship with Randy “The Ram” Robinson, a washed-up professional wrestler played by Mickey Rourke, who is trying to make a comeback.

Tomei’s performance is incredibly raw, vulnerable, and powerful. She portrays a woman who is both tough and tender, and her deep connection with Rourke’s character is the emotional heart of this critically acclaimed film.

‘Cyrus’ (2010)

In this independent comedy, Tomei played Molly Fawcett, a single mother who starts a promising new relationship with a lonely man named John, played by John C. Reilly. The only problem is her overly attached, 21-year-old son, Cyrus, played by Jonah Hill, who is not ready to share his mother with another man.

Tomei is wonderful as the loving mother caught between her new boyfriend and her manipulative son. She perfectly balances the humor and the heart of the story, making her character’s difficult situation both funny and relatable.

‘The Lincoln Lawyer’ (2011)

In this legal thriller based on the Michael Connelly novel, Tomei played Maggie McPherson. She is a tough prosecutor and the ex-wife of the main character, a charismatic defense attorney named Mickey Haller, played by Matthew McConaughey.

Despite their divorce, Maggie and Mickey still share a close and complicated relationship, especially as they co-parent their daughter. Tomei brought strength and intelligence to the role, creating a character who is more than a match for her charming ex-husband.

‘Salvation Boulevard’ (2011)

This satirical comedy is about a former hippie who becomes a born-again Christian, only to find himself on the run after witnessing a crime involving his mega-church’s charismatic pastor. Tomei played Honey Foster, the sensual wife of a college professor who gets mixed up in the chaotic events.

The film satirizes religious hypocrisy and features a large ensemble cast. Tomei’s character adds another layer of temptation and complication to the main character’s absurd journey.

‘Crazy, Stupid, Love.’ (2011)

In this romantic comedy with a large ensemble cast, Tomei had a memorable supporting role as Kate Tafferty. She is a teacher who, after a drunken one-night stand with a newly single man played by Steve Carell, becomes hilariously and aggressively obsessed with him.

Her performance is a comedic highlight of the film. Tomei fully commits to the role of the slightly unhinged but ultimately harmless woman, delivering some of the movie’s biggest laughs.

‘The Ides of March’ (2011)

This political drama, directed by and starring George Clooney, is about an idealistic young press secretary working on a presidential campaign. Tomei played Ida Horowicz, a savvy and veteran journalist for The New York Times who is covering the campaign.

Her character is a tough and experienced political reporter who knows how the game is played. In her scenes, Tomei perfectly embodies the sharp intelligence and cynical realism of a seasoned journalist navigating the treacherous world of politics.

‘Inescapable’ (2012)

In this thriller, Tomei played Fatima, the former fiancée of a man who fled Syria years ago. When his daughter goes missing in Damascus, he must return to his home country and confront his dangerous past to find her, and he seeks out Fatima for help.

The film is a tense political and personal drama. Tomei’s character is a key figure from the protagonist’s past, and she helps him navigate the treacherous landscape of modern-day Syria.

‘Parental Guidance’ (2012)

In this family comedy, Tomei played Alice Simmons, a modern, type-A mother who has to leave her three children with her old-fashioned parents, played by Billy Crystal and Bette Midler. The clash between the grandparents’ laid-back style and the children’s highly structured lives leads to chaos.

Tomei played the relatable role of a working mother trying to balance her career and her family. The film’s humor comes from the generational gap in parenting styles, with her character caught in the middle.

‘Love Is Strange’ (2014)

This independent drama tells the story of an elderly gay couple who, after finally getting married, are forced to live separately with different friends and family members when one of them loses his job. Tomei played Kate Hull, the wife of the couple’s nephew, who takes in one of the men.

Her character is a wife and mother whose home life is disrupted by the new living arrangement. Tomei gives a nuanced performance as a woman who is trying to be supportive but is also feeling the strain of the situation on her own family.

‘The Rewrite’ (2014)

In this romantic comedy, Tomei starred opposite Hugh Grant. He plays a washed-up, Oscar-winning screenwriter who takes a teaching job at a small-town college. Tomei played Holly Carpenter, a single mother and optimistic student in his class who challenges him to change his cynical outlook on life.

Tomei’s warmth and charm make her the perfect foil for Grant’s grumpy character. Their chemistry drives the film, as she inspires him to find a new passion for both teaching and his own life.

‘Spare Parts’ (2015)

Based on a true story, this inspirational film is about four undocumented Hispanic high school students who form a robotics club. With the help of their new teacher, they enter a national underwater robotics competition, competing against powerhouse universities like MIT. Tomei played Gwen Kolinsky, another teacher at the school.

Her character is a supportive colleague who develops a romantic relationship with the teacher leading the robotics club. She provides encouragement and belief in the students’ incredible journey.

‘Trainwreck’ (2015)

In this comedy written by and starring Amy Schumer, Tomei played “The Dog Owner.” She appears in a funny scene where she and her boyfriend, played by wrestler John Cena, have a confrontational and awkward encounter with Schumer’s character in a movie theater.

Though a small role, her appearance is a memorable comedic moment. The scene hilariously plays with Cena’s tough-guy image and showcases Tomei’s ability to make an impact in just a few minutes of screen time.

‘Love the Coopers’ (2015)

This Christmas-themed comedy features a large ensemble cast as four generations of a dysfunctional family who come together for their annual holiday gathering. Tomei played Emma, the sister of the family matriarch, who gets arrested for shoplifting on her way to the dinner.

Her character’s storyline involves a series of revealing conversations with the police officer who has her in custody. It’s a comedic and poignant subplot about sibling rivalry and personal regrets.

‘The Big Short’ (2015)

In this Oscar-winning film about the 2008 financial crisis, Tomei played Cynthia Baum. She is the wife of Mark Baum, a cynical hedge fund manager played by Steve Carell, who is one of the few people to predict the housing market collapse.

Although her role is small, her scenes provide a crucial glimpse into Mark’s personal life and the emotional toll his work takes on him. She acts as his conscience and grounding force in a world of greed and corruption.

‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016)

Marisa Tomei made her debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as May Parker, the aunt of Peter Parker, a.k.a. Spider-Man. In this film, she is visited by Tony Stark, who has come to recruit her nephew for his team in the impending superhero showdown.

Her introduction brought a fresh, younger, and more contemporary version of Aunt May to the screen. Tomei’s warm and funny portrayal immediately established a strong and loving relationship with Tom Holland’s Peter Parker.

‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017)

Tomei reprised her role as Aunt May in the first solo outing for this version of Spider-Man. The film focuses on Peter Parker trying to balance his life as a high school student with his new identity as a superhero. May is his loving guardian who is still unaware of his secret.

Her version of May is actively involved in Peter’s life, offering him guidance and support while also navigating her own life as a single guardian. The film famously ends with her discovering Peter’s secret identity in a hilarious final scene.

‘After Everything’ (2018)

In this romantic drama, Tomei played Dr. Lisa Harden. The film is about a young man who, after being diagnosed with a serious illness, impulsively starts a relationship with a woman he has just met. Tomei’s character is the doctor who treats him and offers him guidance.

Her role as the compassionate and straightforward doctor is a key supporting part of the film’s emotional journey. She provides a voice of reason and support for the young couple facing a difficult future.

‘The First Purge’ (2018)

This film is a prequel in the popular horror franchise, explaining how the annual Purge event began. Tomei played Dr. May Updale, also known as The Architect, the social scientist who designed the psychological experiment that allows all crime to be legal for one night on Staten Island.

Her character initially believes the Purge will act as a societal release, but she becomes horrified when she realizes it is being manipulated into a tool for government-sanctioned violence. Tomei played a complex character whose idealistic theories have monstrous real-world consequences.

‘Frankie’ (2019)

In this quiet, atmospheric drama, Tomei is part of an international ensemble cast. The film follows three generations of a family who have gathered for a final vacation in Sintra, Portugal, after the family matriarch, played by Isabelle Huppert, reveals she is terminally ill. Tomei played Irene, a hairdresser who is a close friend of the family.

The film is a subtle and beautifully shot meditation on life, love, and family. Tomei’s character brings an outsider’s perspective and a different kind of energy to the family’s introspective gathering.

‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ (2019)

Tomei returned as Aunt May in this sequel, which sees Peter Parker and his friends go on a school trip to Europe. In this film, May is now aware of Peter’s superhero life and has become his biggest supporter, even using his fame for her charity work. She also develops a surprising and funny romance with Happy Hogan.

Her role was expanded in this installment, showing her actively involved in both Peter’s personal and superhero life. Her funny and charming romantic subplot with Jon Favreau was a highlight for many fans.

‘Human Capital’ (2019)

This drama tells the story of two families from different social classes whose lives become entangled after a tragic hit-and-run accident. The story is told from the perspectives of three different characters. Tomei played Carrie, the wife of a struggling hedge fund manager.

Her character is trying to restore an old theater and finds herself emotionally adrift in a life that feels empty despite its material wealth. Tomei’s performance explored themes of loneliness and the search for meaning in a world driven by money.

‘The King of Staten Island’ (2020)

In this comedy-drama directed by Judd Apatow and starring Pete Davidson, Tomei played Margie Carlin, the mother of Davidson’s character. She is a hard-working emergency room nurse and a single mother who has been raising her son alone since her firefighter husband died.

Tomei’s performance was widely praised for its warmth, strength, and realism. She portrayed the deep love and exasperation of a mother trying to help her adult son, who is struggling with grief and a lack of direction.

‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ (2021)

Tomei’s portrayal of Aunt May took on its most significant and emotional role in this blockbuster installment. After Peter Parker’s identity is revealed to the world, May continues to be his moral compass, working at a community center and reminding him of his responsibility to help others.

Her character’s fate in this film is a powerful and heartbreaking turning point for Spider-Man, delivering the iconic line about great power and great responsibility. Her performance provided the emotional anchor for one of the most pivotal moments in this version of the hero’s journey.

‘Delia’s Gone’ (2022)

In this thriller, Tomei played Francine “Fran” Cole, the supportive aunt of a man with an intellectual disability who is accused of killing his sister. After escaping from a care facility, he embarks on a journey to find out what really happened, and his aunt is one of the few people who believes in his innocence.

The film is a dark and gritty mystery. Tomei’s role as the caring and protective aunt provides a rare source of light and support for the main character on his difficult quest for the truth.

‘She Came to Me’ (2023)

This romantic comedy features an ensemble cast and centers on a composer suffering from writer’s block who has an adventurous one-night stand that reignites his creative passion. Tomei played Katrina Trento, the composer’s wife, a brilliant and meticulous therapist who is obsessed with cleanliness.

Her character is part of the film’s quirky and interconnected web of relationships. Tomei delivers a sharp, funny, and ultimately moving performance as a woman who discovers a new path to spiritual fulfillment in a very unexpected way.

‘Upgraded’ (2024)

In this romantic comedy, Tomei played Claire DuPont, a demanding and powerful director of a major art auction house in London. The story follows a young intern who, through a case of mistaken identity on a flight, is believed to be Claire’s new director and must keep up the charade.

Tomei is hilarious as the terrifying, high-fashion boss from hell. Her character is a classic take on the powerful and intimidating figure in the art and fashion world, and she delivers her cutting remarks with perfect comedic timing.

‘High Tide’ (2024)

In this independent film, Marisa Tomei played Miriam. The story follows a group of people whose lives intersect and are changed during the course of a single day on the Jersey Shore as a hurricane approaches.

The film explores themes of chance, connection, and consequence against the backdrop of an impending storm. Tomei’s role is part of a diverse ensemble cast, each with their own story that contributes to the film’s overarching narrative tapestry.

‘Brothers’ (2024)

This action-comedy stars Josh Brolin and Peter Dinklage as two very different twin brothers who go on a road trip. Marisa Tomei played Bethesda Waingro, the tough and savvy bail bondswoman who is on their trail.

Her role is that of a determined and resourceful pursuer, adding another layer of conflict and comedy to the brothers’ chaotic journey. The film reunites her with Josh Brolin, her co-star from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Which Marisa Tomei performance has stayed with you the most? Feel free to share in the comments.