'Hunger Games': First Look at Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss

Entertainment Weekly's latest issue gives fans the very first look at Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen from the upcoming Hunger Games, directed by Gary Ross for a March 23, 2012 release.

Based on the Suzanne Collins bestseller, The Hunger Games chronicles a dystopic Capitol which requires its twelve subjugated districts to pay tribute in the form of a teenage boy and girl, forced to participate in the annual "Hunger Games," a fight-to-the-death live televised event. Katniss Everdeen's little sister is chosen in the lottery to participate and Katniss volunteers to take her place. Although persevering through hardship is commonplace for Katniss, she must start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love in order to win the games and return home.

Lawrence told the magazine about her transformation in to Katniss as well as how protective she was of the books.

On understanding not getting the role: "I told [executive producer Gary Ross], 'I totally understand if you don't hire me. But please remember that after Katniss shoots a bow and kills someone, her face cannot be bada**. It has to be broken.'"

Her new look: Lawrence's hair was dyed brown and pulled back in a braided ponytail followed by plenty of sun tanning. "I think I just have to stay tan," the star says of her new hair color. "Or I'll look like the girl from 'The Ring.'"

The Training: Lawrence has undergone archery training, track work, stunt drills, and yoga to portray Katniss' fierce skills. Plus, she would have to become lean, though not "gaunt" when shooting began in North Carolina on May 19.

The costume: Lawrence says she could care less about what she'll wear when Katniss is presented at The Capitol before the games, but she was plenty involved with designing her arena outfit.