First Frost Review| A Must Watch of 2025

• Native Title: 难哄
• Also Known As: First Frost , Eternal Love 
• Screenwriter & Director: Chu Yu Ning
• Genres: Romance, Life, Youth, 

Cast of First Frost

• Bai Jing Ting as Sang Yan
• Zhang Ruo Nan as Wen Yi Fan
• Edward Chen as Su Hao An
• Zhang Miao Yi as Zhong Si Qiao
• Yuan Ye as Mu Cheng Yun
• Zhai Xiao Wen as Xiang Lang

Synopsis

“The First Frost” is a Chinese romantic drama that premiered on February 18, 2025, on Youku. Serving as a spin-off to the popular series “Hidden Love,” this drama delves into the intricate relationship between Sang Yan and Wen Yifan.

Sang Yan (portrayed by Bai Jingting) and Wen Yifan (played by Zhang Ruonan) were close friends during their high school years but drifted apart after graduation. Years later, fate intervenes, bringing them back together under unforeseen circumstances. Wen Yifan, a journalist, is compelled to leave her apartment due to issues with her neighbors, while Sang Yan’s residence suffers damage from a fire. This series of events leads them to cohabit in the same rental space. As they navigate their shared living situation, old feelings resurface, and their bond deepens. However, they must confront past misunderstandings and unfulfilled promises that challenge their rekindled relationship.

For viewers seeking a heartfelt narrative about rekindled love and personal redemption, “The First Frost” offers a compelling and emotionally resonant experience.

Review of First Frost

I started watching “The First Frost” with no expectations, just looking for something new to pass the time. Little did I know, I’d be hooked from the very first episode, binging through the initial releases without even realizing it. This drama has a captivating charm, thanks to its well-written characters, engaging dialogues, and an emotional depth that lingers long after each episode ends.

Wen Yifan: A Unique and Compelling Female Lead

What stood out to me the most was the depth of the female lead, Wen Yifan. Unlike the usual bubbly, lighthearted female leads we often see in C-dramas, she carries a melancholic aura—a woman weighed down by past trauma but silently strong in her own way. Zhang Ruonan embodies this role perfectly. Her subtle expressions, reserved demeanor, and the quiet pain in her eyes make Wen Yifan feel incredibly real and relatable. Her character development is a slow burn, revealing little pieces of her past as the story unfolds, and I found myself rooting for her healing journey at every step.

The drama delicately portrays her struggles with family rejection, past trauma, and the effects of sexual assault, which shape her introverted personality and cautious approach to relationships. Unlike the typical female leads, she doesn’t seek attention or validation but instead tries to live quietly, avoiding unnecessary interactions. This makes her journey toward healing and rekindling old love all the more touching.

Sang Yan: A Perfectly Layered Male Lead

Bai Jingting as Sang Yan is another highlight. His character is consistent with how he was portrayed in “Hidden Love”—confident yet emotionally guarded. Seeing him transition from a teasing older brother figure in “Hidden Love” to a romantic lead in “The First Frost” adds an intriguing layer to his character. His micro-expressions and quiet longing for Wen Yifan make every interaction between them feel raw and real. The tension, the hesitation, and the unspoken words between them make for a compelling watch. I appreciate how their love story isn’t rushed but is built through small, intimate moments, making it all the more meaningful.

Sang Yan’s unwavering devotion is evident, even when he hides his emotions behind a mask of indifference. The way he silently supports Wen Yifan, respecting her boundaries while still trying to rekindle their lost love, is what makes his character so appealing. Some viewers might find his approach frustratingly slow, but I see it as a realistic and respectful portrayal of love—giving Wen Yifan the space she needs to heal while subtly proving that he has always been there for her.

Attention to Detail: Cinematography and Atmosphere

One of the drama’s biggest strengths is its attention to detail. From the muted, baggy clothing that visually represents Wen Yifan’s emotional state to the cinematography that captures the melancholic undertones, everything feels intentional. The music, lighting, and camera work all come together beautifully to create an immersive experience.

The cinematography plays a key role in enhancing the drama’s tone. The soft lighting, moody color palette, and thoughtful framing all contribute to the deeply emotional atmosphere. Every scene feels like a carefully composed painting, adding to the overall storytelling experience.

Criticisms: Pacing and Chemistry Issues

However, I do understand why some viewers feel conflicted about the show. “The First Frost” isn’t the typical feel-good, fluffy romance. It explores heavy themes like trauma, loss, and the lingering scars of the past. Some might find the pacing slow or the mood too somber, but for me, that’s exactly what makes it stand out. It’s a drama that takes its time to unravel its characters, letting their emotions breathe instead of forcing instant resolutions.

There are a few criticisms I agree with. At times, the background music feels mismatched with the scenes, disrupting the intended mood. Some viewers have also pointed out a lack of strong chemistry between the leads compared to other dramas like “Hidden Love” and “When I Fly Towards You.” While I personally felt their connection grow over time, I can see why some might find their interactions a bit subdued. The secondary couple adds lightheartedness to the series, but they sometimes overshadow the main leads in terms of entertainment value.

Additionally, some viewers have expressed disappointment with how certain emotional moments are handled. The slow pacing, while deliberate, may feel dragging to those who prefer fast-moving storylines with dramatic romantic gestures. However, I personally believe that the drama’s commitment to realism makes the emotional buildup all the more rewarding.

Final Thoughts: A Drama Worth Watching

Despite its flaws, “The First Frost” is shaping up to be one of the most memorable dramas of 2025. It’s not just a love story but a tale of healing, second chances, and finding light in the darkest moments. If you’re looking for a slow-burn romance with deep emotional layers and well-developed characters, I highly recommend giving it a try. Just be prepared for a journey that’s as heart-wrenching as it is beautiful.

For those who enjoy sentimental and introspective dramas, this one is a must-watch. However, if you’re looking for an easygoing romance filled with lighthearted fluff, this might not be for you. “The First Frost” demands patience, but the reward is a deeply touching story that lingers in your heart long after the final episode.

What’s your view about The First Frost Cdrama?

Let me know about it in the comment section.