The trailer for Disney's live-action 'Moana' has generated significant online discussion, with many viewers mocking Dwayne Johnson's curly wig as the demigod Maui. Social media users expressed disbelief at the famously bald actor sporting voluminous locks, with one X user calling it 'the weirdest thing I've ever seen' and another stating, 'Dwayne Johnson with hair just doesn’t feel right.' Comedian Weird Al Yankovic even joined in, joking that the wig's curl pattern resembled his own hair.
Despite the criticism, the trailer amassed 132 million views across YouTube and other platforms within its first 24 hours, outperforming first looks for 'Moana 2,' 'Mufasa,' 'Barbie,' 'Wonka,' and Johnson's 'Red One.' Johnson defended the wig, explaining to Entertainment Weekly that it was crucial to maintaining the animated character's integrity, as Maui was proud of his hair. He noted that the team considered digital effects but ultimately opted for a physical wig, which required two and a half hours of makeup application daily, along with a 40-pound prosthetic bodysuit.
Beyond the wig, viewers criticized the film's overall visual aesthetic, with one commenter noting that Polynesia looked 'washed out and dull.' The movie was shot on location in Oahu, Hawaii, and at Trillith Studios in Atlanta, where visual effects-heavy sequences were completed. Cinematographer Óscar Faura blended in-camera footage with digital elements, while visual effects supervisor Bill Westenhofer, known for 'Life of Pi,' oversaw the CGI work.
Insiders argue that the negative discourse represents a vocal minority, claiming less than 5% of mentions involved criticism of Maui's hair or the film's look. The trailer resonated strongly with parents, with one Instagram commenter saying, 'I’m more excited about this than my five year old.' Another praised the Polynesian representation, writing they had 'full body chills' at seeing 'a princess that looks like my people.' Sources confirm there are no plans for major creative changes despite the online backlash.
