Skill level of male actors has increased
I just realised how much the standards and expectations for male actors have increased compared to ten years ago. Back then, productions often used CGI for horse‑riding scenes or filmed only the upper body to fake the action (Although I am aware they still use fake horse riding sometimes still..). Now actors are expected to perform real horse‑riding sequences and handle extensive wire work instead of relying on camera tricks.
The expectations for appearance have also risen. Many actors now need to maintain fit bodies and visible abs for shirtless scenes, compared to the “prosthetic abs” era from five to ten years ago.
For wuxia dramas, the fight choreography has become so demanding that both male and female actors might as well start real martial arts training. While script quality has declined in some cases, there have also been positive changes in the industry.