Julia Roberts, once one of the most bankable celebrities in America known for her radiant smile and long legs, was almost unrecognizable at 44 while filming with Ewan McGregor. The actress, who gained fame as Vivian Ward in the 1990 hit Pretty Woman, was transformed for her role in August: Osage County, shooting in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Her face was makeup-free, and she wore dowdy clothing, a far cry from her glamorous image.

On location Thursday, Julia and co-star Ewan McGregor were filming intense scenes for the movie. The actress, married to cinematographer Daniel Moder and a mother of three, wore loose blue trousers and a white blouse layered over a cream top. Her long brown hair was styled simply, fitting her role as Barbara Weston, a woman grappling with family struggles after the disappearance of her alcoholic father.

In one tense scene, Ewan held Julia’s hand as they approached a boat dock, where a sheriff was set to identify a deceased body.

Another cast member, known for her role in Boardwalk Empire, also wore plain attire, with her hair pulled back into a ponytail, dressed in a blue shirt and brown flared pants. The 2013 film also stars Meryl Streep as Violet Weston and Benedict Cumberbatch as “Little Charles Aiken.”

Other casting notes included Renée Zellweger and Andrea Riseborough, who were considered for roles. Riseborough, initially cast as Karen Weston, withdrew due to scheduling conflicts and was replaced by Juliette Lewis. Abigail Breslin secured the role of Jean Fordham, which Chloë Moretz had also auditioned for.