(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Rooney Mara has transformed her appearance ahead of filming The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

The 25-year-old upcoming actress has been announced as the lead female in David Finchers latest project, beating off competition from big names such as Scarlett Johansson and Natalie Portman.

In order to get into her character, violent computer hacker Lisbeth Salander, Rooney has bleached her eyebrows and dyed her hair black. It has been reported the actress has even had her nipple pierced in preparation for a scene which requires her to appear topless.

Along with changing her look, Rooney is also keeping a low-profile and hasnt been seen out in public too often since she landed the role.

"She is in lockdown. David Fincher is determined to keep her out of sight as much as possible to keep her look under wraps," a source told the New York Post.

Movie bosses are keen for the emerging star to be convincing in her portrayal of Lisbeth and this means she must look the part.

A spokesperson for The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo insists Rooneys dramatic change of appearance is common for most actresses who take on a new role.

She's going to look like the character as described in the novels," a representative said.

In the movie based upon the bestselling series of books written by Stieg Larsson Lisbeth gets involved in a series of gruesome incidents as she fights crimes alongside journalist Mikael Blomkvist, who will be played by Daniel Craig. (C) Cover Media