Dour Actresses Cover Up in Pursuit of Oscars

Feb. 17, 2009 — -- Call it the "take me seriously" syndrome.

Almost every year, during the lead-up to the Academy Awards, a film comes out starring one of Hollywood's hottest, most sought-after actresses. But instead of strutting around onscreen in a ball gown, bikini or with a face full of feature-enhancing makeup, she's sullen. She's dour. Sometimes, she's flat-out ugly.

Why? She's probably trying to win an Oscar.

It's no secret that the movie industry insiders casting ballots for Hollywood's most coveted trophies salivate when actresses decimate their looks in the name of their craft. What better way to demonstrate commitment to a role than to chop off a head full of commercially endorsed hair and pack 20 pounds onto a to-die-for frame?

Below, see which actresses are hoping to score an award by smothering their looks this year, and check out who worked the technique to victory in the past.