Apple's Face ID: Decoding Its Meaning and Origins
In the realm of entertainment, a new term has been coined to spark debate among viewers and industry professionals alike - "iPhone face." This term, first used in 2023 as "smartphone face," has become a point of discussion due to its impact on the believability of actors' performances in period dramas.
"iPhone face" refers to individuals who exhibit a distinctly modern appearance, alluding to their familiarity with the iPhone or similar devices. Celebrities such as Dakota Johnson, Sydney Sweeney, Sam Claflin, Michael B. Jordan, Zendaya, Cameron Diaz, Margot Robbie, Jenna Coleman, and Nicole Kidman have been identified as having "iPhone face."
The emergence of "iPhone face" may be attributed to the greater diversification and merging of cultures, as well as the increasing popularity of cosmetic procedures like Botox and veneers. These changes in appearance, while they may be considered aesthetically pleasing, can make it challenging for actors to convincingly portray characters from different time periods.
For instance, actors like Zac Efron and Sydney Sweeney have been criticised for their "iPhone face" in period dramas like Little Women, Emma, and Persuasion. However, some actors, such as Keira Knightley and Florence Pugh, have been praised for their timeless faces, which lend credibility to their performances in various projects.
The concept of "iPhone face" has been particularly noticeable in series like The Tudors (2007-2010), where actors like Henry Cavill and Jonathan Rhys Meyers were thought to look too modern for their respective time periods. This trend has continued, with actors like Elon Musk and Keanu Reeves exhibiting a "reverse iPhone face," meaning they fit in with earlier time periods.
In the case of the popular Netflix series Stranger Things, some members of the cast have been identified as having a "reverse iPhone face," making them well-suited for their roles in the 1980s-set show.
As period dramas continue to dominate the entertainment landscape, the debate over "iPhone face" and its impact on the believability of actors' performances is likely to persist. Whether it's a matter of adapting to changing beauty standards or maintaining historical accuracy, the discussion around "iPhone face" is a fascinating exploration of the intersections between art, culture, and personal appearance.
