It seems to have become quite typical that when a celebrity suddenly chops their long locks off we all assume she is pulling a Britney and has gone mad. But in Kristen Stewart's case, the decision to cut was a smart one.  Stewart, known best from the Twilight series, is set to play Joan Jett, in The Runaways.

But cutting her hair for the role is just the beginning. Kristen has also been having vocal lessons, practicing her guitar skills, and hanging out with Joan Jett herself, who is to be the films executive producer. Kristen admits they even spent New Years together, “I spent, like hours, just talking to her.”

And who will play Cherie Currie you're wondering? Miss Dakota Fanning of course. Who also co-stared in New Moon with Kristen Stewart.

For more information go to: http://www.examiner.com/x-1780-NY-Celebrity-Sightings-Examiner~y2009m6d9-Kristen-Stewart-chops-off-her-hair-to-play-Joan-Jett