Rooney Mara, ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ — Movie Transformations

Rooney Mara beat out a pool of actresses including Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson to snag the coveted role of Lisbeth Salander in the US film version of 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.' It was a fresh start for the actress, who not only left behind her previous resume of minor roles, but also her curly long hair and classic cookie-cutter looks.

With an edgier on-screen style and a take-no-prisoners persona, she became the girl in the spotlight -- not just in the movie itself, but also in public. All of sudden, Mara was the girl who wore high-end couture and black bangs on the red carpet, and graced the covers of fashion magazines. According to 'GWTDT' costume designer Trish Summerville, "[Mara] absorbed pieces of Lisbeth, but made it into her own style."

The above left photo portrays Mara prior to the casting announcement that would launch her into stardom.