Fans have pointed out that it's hard to distinguish characters in the drama 'Five Blessings' due to the overly similar makeup and costumes. Despite the actors' good looks, the lack of individuality in their styling makes them blend together, leading to visual fatigue. The issue isn't just limited to facial features; even from a distance, characters are indistinguishable because of their nearly identical outfits and hairstyles.
The female characters, without exception, sport center - parted bangs with either a single or double bun, occasionally varied by additional hair accessories. Their eye makeup, eyebrows, and lip colors are almost identical. The costumes predominantly feature Beizi (褙子) from the Southern Song Dynasty, with occasional Northern Song - style cross - collar robes and wide - sleeved gowns. The fabrics and color schemes are so uniform that even changes in a character's marital status—like switching from loose hair to an updo—fail to make a noticeable difference.
This problem isn't unique to 'Five Blessings.' Many modern historical dramas prioritize template - based styling over character - specific designs, reinforcing cultural stereotypes. Unlike dramas such as 'National Beauty' or 'Pearl Curtain,' where each character's makeup and costumes evolve with their roles and settings, 'Five Blessings' offers no such variety. Even the comedy 'Joyful Life in the Orchid Chamber,' set in the same Song Dynasty backdrop, manages to differentiate its characters through distinct hairstyles, outfits, and accessories.
The criticism stems from the production team's emphasis on the 'exquisite' makeup and costumes, which, in reality, fall short in both historical accuracy and character differentiation. With ample references available from Song Dynasty paintings, the lack of effort in styling not only weakens character portrayal but also diminishes the show's visual appeal. In short, using 'Song culture' as an excuse for bland aesthetics no longer works—audiences are tired of it.
