Whenever we want a quick fix or instant transformation of a character in a film in terms of hair, Wigs are the solution. In the Kenyan film industry, wigs are more popular among female actors and for men not so much because most of them view it as a feminine thing to adorn and they prefer getting a haircut or hair dye to alter their looks. In Hollywood, wigs are so popular for alterations for both men and women and I hope we can make that the case here in Kenya.
Film hairstylists in Kenya face major issues of hair continuity from actors who are probably doing three productions running concurrently. Most refuse to do the hair given to them by the hairstylist because they have continuity in another production. This is also the case for the male actors who refuse a haircut or to shave their beards for a production. It gives a hard time to the people working in the hair department as most directors choose to compromise their vision by allowing actors to use their ‘continuity look’ from another production for a new one.
As a production designer, I totally disagree with this culture of compromising a look but at times given the nature of our film industry which is still growing, I am forced to bow down to the pressure. All this is because actors are not paid on time, and this forces them to involve themselves in so many productions to enable them to pay bills and earn a living forcing them to maintain the same look for all the productions.
In order to meet in the middle, I encourage hair stylists to invest in different types of wigs and extensions for on-the-spot alterations of a character’s appearance. It is an instant lifesaver on set. Human hair wigs can be washed, styled and dyed to fit what the production calls for. Wigs if well maintained are cost effective as they can be used for a long period of time by different film characters.
All the producers who think wigs are an expensive affair and that actors should just show up as they are, think again, invest in good quality wigs now that can last up to 5 years and save you a lot of money in future.