Final answer:
Film's high resolution can make heavy makeup on men more noticeable; a view stemming from historical attitudes where men's makeup was criticized, and women's use was linked to deception. This perception persists, influencing modern standards of on-screen presentation. Ancient literature reflects negative views on cosmetics as deceitful with critics linking makeup to moral judgments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The perception that film will reveal much more clearly than television if a man has too much makeup on stems from the higher resolution and detail that film captures. This idea is underpinned by historical views on cosmetics, where men faced criticism if their use of makeup was perceived as excessive. In Roman society, male usage of makeup often contradicted the expectations of masculine virtue and youth, a contradiction evident in the sources from Plutarch highlighting Roman men wearing makeup. Nonetheless, Ovid's work, despite the underlying sexist messaging, acknowledged the societal pressures women faced to maintain their appearance through cosmetics with a subtle appreciation for this art of application.
Negative views of female cosmetics in ancient literature often link the use of makeup to moral judgments. Critics saw cosmetics as indicators of luxury and depravity, which is emphasized by Juvenal when he associates the use of makeup with deception in relationships. Furthermore, Martial's vicious critique parallels the scent of a woman to foul odors, suggesting that the use of cosmetics was an attempt to deceive others about one's true characteristics. This stigma also influenced the pressure on women to use makeup 'appropriately', lest they attract negative attention or reveal what was considered a vile truth behind their appearance.
In reference to the modern context, the director of presidential debates underscores the continued importance of makeup in media presentations, indicative of the lasting impacts of these ancient perspectives. The evolution of cosmetics sees a growing number of men using products like eyeshadow and mascara, reflecting changing notions of grooming and self-presentation that challenge traditional gender norms.