Chinese actor Zhang Ruoyun, who starred in the costume drama series “Joy of Life,” welcomed the finale of the second season on June 2nd. Despite mixed reviews, the show’s popularity has been steadily increasing from its premiere to its conclusion. Sharp-eyed viewers have noticed various anachronisms in the series, including modern-day items such as sneakers, tattoos, electric poles, and tiles in the first nine episodes, followed by at least eight more continuity errors that have sparked discussions.
One, a smartphone appears on the roof. Although the scene was brief, observant viewers spotted a modern smartphone with a lit screen lying on a tiled roof, looking out of place. Speculation arose that the phone was likely left behind by the crew during set dressing.
Two, a bread delivery van shows up in the background. In a scene depicting everyday life in ancient times, a modern bread delivery van made an unexpected appearance outside the bustling city gates, eliciting a mix of laughter and confusion from the audience.
Three, a plastic bottle appears in a confrontation scene between a mother and daughter. As the characters portrayed by Li Qin and Li Xiaoran engaged in a tense altercation while arguing with Zhang Ruoyun’s character, “Fan Xian,” a plastic bottle resembling a tea beverage appeared on a small table behind them. The presence of such a common modern object left viewers bewildered, changing the atmosphere to a comical one.
Four, someone flips the middle finger. During a crowded scene, some extras were spotted wearing modern glasses, and a temporary actor boldly made a rude gesture towards the camera, which surprisingly made the final cut in the broadcast.
Five, a cameraman is seen in a crowd scene. In a shot featuring Zhang Ruoyun surrounded by extras, a corner revealed a cameraman holding a camera, creating a visual clash between the modern film crew and the period costumes of the actors.
Six, a man in white T-shirt and black pants appears in a palace scene. Among the orderly palace attendants, a man in a white T-shirt and black pants was caught peeking from behind a column, exposing his back and buttocks, adding a touch of humor to the scene.
Seven, the second prince portrayed by Liu Duan eats at “Haidilao.” During a grand feast, the second prince is seen enjoying a hotpot meal from the modern Chinese restaurant chain “Haidilao,” prompting confusion and humor among viewers questioning the character’s grasp of historical accuracy.
Eight, wristwatches make multiple appearances. From Wang Tonghui’s character, Guo Zheng, to extras playing innkeepers and passersby, wristwatches occasionally flash on their wrists, starkly clashing with their ancient attire and distracting viewers.
Viewers have criticized the series, calling it “roughly made” and claiming that the continuity errors insult the audience, with some directly questioning the director’s seriousness.