Disney's live-action Moana director Thomas Kail has addressed criticism over changing Moana's hair from the original animated film. The decision to have actress Catherine Laga'aia wear a wavy wig instead of using her naturally curly hair sparked backlash after teaser images were released.
Director Explains Wig Use for Practical Reasons
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Kail revealed that the production faced challenges due to the demanding filming schedule. The film was shot over 80 to 90 days in temperatures reaching 43°C (109°F). Catherine had to film scenes with both wet and dry hair on the same day, making it difficult to restyle her natural hair without causing damage.
Kail explained: "We shot for 80 or 90 days and it’s [43°C]. What this would do with the wear and tear and [going] in and out of tanks and out water. Sometimes we’re doing three different scenes in a day that are from completely different parts of the film."
He added: "A lot of it’s about maintenance, and in the body of the film… Moana has 30 different looks for hair. When she gets knocked around the ocean in the storm, it’s gonna look quite different than when she’s being presented in front of the village."
Actress Catherine Laga'aia Supports the Wig
Catherine Laga'aia, who has naturally curly hair like the animated Moana, expressed appreciation for the wig. She said: "The first time I put it on, I was like, this is so cool. I get to have hair down to my waist. It’s kind of a new look for me. Once I was in this wig, once I’m in this costume, then I really am Moana."
She concluded: "I think it helped me kind of channel her and see myself a little bit differently through her. So maybe there were things that, you know, Catherine couldn’t do, but Moana could do."
Backlash Over Hair Change
Fans criticized the live-action adaptation for altering Moana's hair from the original animated film, where she had curly hair. The decision to use a wig was seen by some as a departure from the character's representation. However, the director and actress emphasized the practical necessity to protect Catherine's natural hair during the rigorous filming process.
