LayarHijau.com — Although it concluded some time ago, the popularity of The First Frost remains high. The drama, starring Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting, premiered on Youku and Netflix (in select regions) on February 18, and in Indonesia, it became available on Netflix starting February 26, 2025.
According to data from Flix Patrol, in the past week, the series has consistently ranked in the top ten on Netflix for TV shows in Southeast Asia. From March 14 to March 20, The First Frost reached a peak position of third and a low of eighth on Netflix Indonesia.
The drama is most popular in Vietnam, where it has consistently ranked second or third during the same period. Meanwhile, in countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia, The First Frost has been placed between seventh and tenth in the Top 10 Netflix list.
The show's position in Singapore is nearly equivalent to its status in Indonesia. This achievement is significant, considering that the top ten lists on Netflix for TV shows in Asia are often dominated by Korean dramas and anime.
Throughout its airing, The First Frost has garnered praise from various international critics. Gulf News described it as "a more mature and emotional journey," highlighting Bai Jingting's portrayal of Sang Yan, which conveys a quiet intensity that makes the character's pain more palpable. Zhang Ruonan's performance as Wen Yifan was also noted for its strength, showcasing a guarded nature that conceals deep emotional struggles.
The drama is recognized for its emotional depth, where each moment carries meaning beyond mere grand romantic gestures. The dual-perspective storytelling adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, illuminating how perception and emotions shape character interactions.
Indiatimes praised the series' non-linear storytelling, which seamlessly transitions between high school memories and their current shared apartment, ensuring audience engagement. The visual aesthetics complement the drama's themes, while the slow pacing allows for the exploration of subtle expressions, such as stolen glances and unspoken words.
The Evrim Ağacı website described the series as an emotional deep dive, focusing on themes of heartbreak, longing, and healing. The initial episodes have captivated viewers, showcasing remarkable chemistry between the lead actors while retaining the charm of their characters.
India Today noted that The First Frost provides an exceptional viewing experience, marked by stellar performances, stunning cinematography, and a script that meticulously addresses themes of regret and emotional complexity. English Jagran highlighted the global impact of the series, praising its thought-provoking storytelling, poetic visuals, and masterful character development.
GQ emphasized that the series is a slow-burn romance, filled with unspoken love and youthful chemistry, joyfully unfolding as destiny brings the protagonists together under the same roof. India Forum pointed out the compelling portrayal of how mental abuse during adolescence affects individuals, touching on themes of independence and low self-esteem that resonate with many viewers.
Mashable rated the series 4 out of 5, stating that The First Frost captures all the emotional and heart-fluttering moments. It offers a refreshing new perspective on romance dramas, sensitively addressing important issues.