The trailer for the upcoming live-action Moana movie was officially released on March 23, and it didn't take long for the internet to be swamped with opinions about the project, from criticism of certain design choices to debates about whether the live-action version is needed/wanted.
While Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson'sMaui wig was perhaps the most heavily commented on element of the entire trailer, Maui is far from the only character whose design drew some criticism and negative responses. In fact, Maui wasn't even the only character whose hair, in particular, was the topic of conversation.
Since the trailer was released, there has been significant online discourse about Moana's hair in the live-action movie. In the original animated version, Moana's long curly hair is one of her most iconic features. It was for that reason that many were excited to hear that Catherine Laga'aia had been cast in the role for the live-action movie, as she had natural curls that were a perfect fit for Moana's hair.
Yet, in the trailer, Moana's hair is actually much less curly and full than it is in animation, which has led many to wonder why Disney would make this change if the actress already had the right hair for the role.
Also genuinely why did they make her hair straighter. Her natural hair is exactly like Moana's, so pic.twitter.com/wpevf1sPC0
— Nau ? MAY 13!!! (@nautheduke) March 23, 2026will never understand hiring an actress who has naturally curly hair like moana but not letting her wear them in the movie t.co/eLhXog7zNe
— kiki ⚡️ (@SAHKMETT) March 23, 2026they developed a new type of animation for moana's curls only to straighten her hair when this is what her natural pattern looks like t.co/YwDL2CtPYW pic.twitter.com/H5wfn5vC8M
— ? cat ? walker's defense attorney (@catherinespaws) March 23, 2026These frustrations and comments following the trailer actually mirror commentary that spread online back in November when images from the movie had become available, showing the same hair change for the beloved Disney character. During that wave of backlash, many creators were specifically calling Disney out for what they argued was whitewashing and removing representation for girls with curly hair.
@aynsley_broomI just couldn’t believe it when watching this preview for the live action #moana that they straightened and then wand curled her beautiful curly hair. Like even young Moana has the curls, but as the older Moana she doesn’t. I just don’t understand why they made that decision. And I know she’s just a fictional character, but this is a fictional character that means so much to so many in our Pasifika community. And I hate the message that this sends to young girls and women. #moanaliveaction #pasifika #pacificislander #samoan
♬ original sound - Aynsley Broom (Moananu Pula) @constipatedvegetableIf we can manage our curls on a daily basis then Disney definitely can too
♬ original sound - Nadia - NadiaOne running theory includes the possibility that curly hair would be more challenging to work with on set and on screen, especially when it comes to CGI, but many have argued that thinking of the work as too difficult undercuts why this representation was important in the first place.
Thus far, commentary surrounding the movie has continued to be positive about Laga'aia herself, and many agree she is perfect for the role. The issues, from most who have taken to the internet with their frustrations, seem to be directed at Disney specifically.
Moana (2026) hits theaters on July 10, 2026.
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