This review may contain spoilers
First Frost (Nan Hong): A Slowburn Masterpiece of Healing and Second Chances
𝗜 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗸𝘂 𝘀𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄, 𝘂𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴.
First Frost is a deeply emotional and beautifully crafted drama that tells the story of Wen Yifan (played by Zhang Ruonan), a reserved and introverted news reporter who carries the weight of past trauma, and Sang Yan (played by Bai Jingting), her first love who re-enters her life after years of separation. The drama explores themes of healing, second chances, and the quiet strength it takes to confront one’s past.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟵.𝟱/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan’s life is marked by pain—her father’s death, her mother’s abandonment, and the trauma of sexual assault inflicted by a family member. These experiences have shaped her into someone who keeps to herself, living a simple yet lonely life. When Sang Yan reappears, their reconnection sparks her journey toward healing. The slow-burn romance is tender and realistic, with Sang Yan patiently navigating Yifan’s walls while grappling with his unresolved feelings.
The pacing is deliberate, allowing the characters’ emotions and growth to unfold naturally. While some viewers may find the slower moments challenging, the payoff is deeply rewarding. The drama also handles sensitive topics like trauma and sexual assault with care, showing Yifan’s struggles and gradual healing in a way that feels authentic and respectful.
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan is the heart of the story, and Zhang Ruonan delivers a breathtaking performance. She perfectly captures Yifan’s quiet strength, social awkwardness, and the emotional scars she carries. Her portrayal is nuanced, from her guarded demeanour to the subtle shifts in her expressions as she begins to open up. Yifan’s journey is relatable and heartbreaking, making her a character you root for from the very beginning.
Sang Yan, played by Bai Jingting, is a green-flag male lead who balances stoicism with unwavering devotion. His love for Yifan is patient and selfless, and Bai Jingting portrays this with a quiet intensity that makes Sang Yan unforgettable. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, with every glance and interaction brimming with unspoken emotions.
The supporting cast, including Yifan’s close friend, Qiao Qiao, and Sang Yan’s loyal friend, Haoan, adds depth to the story through Haoan's family background and the development of his grandparents opening up to each other.
𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗹:
One of the most significant changes in First Frost from the novel is the handling of Wen Yifan’s confrontation with her abuser. In the novel, Yifan demonstrates remarkable growth by facing her uncle head-on, symbolising her strength and resilience after years of trauma. However, in the drama, she runs away to Hong Kong when her uncle reappears, leading to a more prolonged arc of her hiding and struggling to confront her past. This change has sparked mixed reactions among viewers.
While the novel portrays Yifan as someone who has grown strong enough to stand up to her abusers, the drama takes a different approach, emphasising her vulnerability and the ongoing impact of her trauma. Some viewers feel this shift undermines her character development, making her seem more like a damsel in distress reliant on Sang Yan to “save” her. In the novel, Yifan’s ability to confront her uncle directly is a pivotal moment of empowerment, whereas the drama’s version leans more heavily on Sang Yan’s role as her protector.
Additionally, the drama alters the setting of the confrontation. In the novel, Yifan’s uncle waits for her outside her workplace like a stalker, while in the drama, he becomes a security guard at her office, adding a layer of tension and intrusion into her daily life. While this change heightens the drama’s stakes, it also shifts the focus away from Yifan’s agency, which is a defining trait in the novel.
Despite these changes, the drama still captures the emotional core of Yifan’s journey. Her struggles with trauma from SA, her gradual healing, and her reliance on Sang Yan’s unwavering support are portrayed with sensitivity and depth. However, for fans of the novel, the drama’s decision to deviate from Yifan’s empowered confrontation may feel like a missed opportunity to fully showcase her growth.
𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗮𝗻:
Sang Yan has been a point of discussion among viewers, with some labelling him as “unrealistic” or a “simp” for his unwavering devotion to Wen Yifan. However, this criticism overlooks the depth of his character and the emotional intelligence he displays throughout the story. Sang Yan is not just a love-struck romantic; he is a man who understands the weight of Yifan’s trauma and chooses to stand by her, offering patience and support without expecting anything in return.
In Episode 28, Sang Yan reflects on his younger self, acknowledging how his pride and immaturity once clouded his judgment. He admits to misunderstanding Yifan’s actions in the past and expresses regret for not being there for her when she needed him most. This moment of vulnerability highlights his growth and underscores his commitment to making amends.
Sang Yan’s love for Yifan is selfless and rooted in a desire to see her live a happy, fulfilling life. He doesn’t see himself as a saviour but as someone who wants to ensure she knows she’s not alone. His actions—whether it’s searching for her tirelessly when she runs away or quietly supporting her as she heals—are driven by a deep sense of care and responsibility.
While some viewers have criticized the dynamic between Sang Yan and Yifan, arguing that she doesn’t reciprocate his efforts enough, it’s important to remember that Yifan’s journey is one of healing. Her reserved nature and struggles with trust make it difficult for her to express her feelings openly. However, her love for Sang Yan is evident in subtle ways, such as cooking for him or standing by him during difficult times.
Sang Yan’s character is a refreshing departure from the stereotypical male leads often seen in dramas. He is emotionally intelligent, patient, and devoted—a true green flag. Rather than being a “doormat,” he is a man who understands the complexities of love and trauma, making him one of the most compelling characters in the story.
𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴/𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting are the standout stars of First Frost. Zhang Ruonan embodies Wen Yifan’s vulnerability and resilience with such authenticity that it’s impossible not to feel deeply for her character. Bai Jingting, as Sang Yan, delivers a masterclass in subtle acting, conveying layers of emotion through his eyes and body language. Together, they create a love story that feels raw, real, and deeply moving. Their chemistry was off the charts!! Each romantic scene, each emotional and solemn scene was portrayed so well. You could see the gaze in their eyes, the micro-expressions and movements. It felt as if you were seeing it happen right in front of your eyes as a real moment.
The supporting cast also shines, with each actor bringing their characters to life in a way that enhances the story. The villains, particularly Yifan’s family members, are portrayed with such conviction that they evoke genuine disdain, further highlighting the emotional stakes of the drama.
𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗿...
The proposal and ending in EP 32 was the best I've seen among all proposal scenes... (I was in tears ㅠㅡㅠ) Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan delivered the emotions and micro-expressions so well SLHTKTLKHKGSKT (crying again).
𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The soundtrack of First Frost is a perfect complement to the story, enhancing its emotional depth. The melancholic yet hopeful tones of the instrumental tracks mirror Yifan’s journey, while the lyrical songs add poignancy to key moments. Tracks like the opening theme and the ending song capture the bittersweet essence of the drama, making the music an integral part of the viewing experience. My favourites were the opening- 任性 (Willful) - 五月天 (Mayday), ending- 是你 (It’s You) - 李宇春 (Li Yuchun), My Dear - 张洢豪 (Zhang Yihao), 晚点 (Later) by Zhang Bichen. Bai Jingting also sang one of the OST tracks. So did Zhang Ruonan and Zhang Miaoyi as a duet and Chen Haosen did as well. The OST was lovely!
𝗖𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝘆: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The cinematography in First Frost is stunning, with each frame thoughtfully composed to reflect the characters’ emotions. The use of lighting and colour palettes—cool tones for Yifan’s loneliness and warmer hues as she begins to heal—adds visual depth to the story. The flashbacks to their high school days are beautifully shot, creating a nostalgic contrast to their present lives. The attention to detail in the sets and locations further immerses viewers in the world of the drama.
𝗥𝗲𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a drama that rewards multiple viewings. Its layered storytelling, emotional depth, and standout performances ensure that each rewatch reveals new nuances to appreciate. While the heavier themes may make it a challenging rewatch for some, the tender romance and heartfelt moments make it a story worth revisiting.
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a poignant and beautifully executed drama that explores the complexities of love, trauma, and healing. Its strong performances, emotional storytelling, and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the world of C-dramas. While it may not be perfect, its ability to touch the heart and inspire reflection makes it a must-watch for fans of slow-burn romances and character-driven narratives.
For those seeking a drama that balances heartbreak with hope and offers a profound exploration of human resilience, First Frost is a gem worth experiencing. It’s not just a love story—it’s a journey of healing, growth, and the quiet strength it takes to find happiness.
Despite the changes from the novel, First Frost remains a beautifully crafted drama with strong performances, a compelling storyline, and stunning cinematography. Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting deliver standout performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The drama’s exploration of trauma, healing, and second-chance love is both poignant and relatable. It is a story about resilience, love, and the quiet strength it takes to heal. It’s a drama that lingers in your heart long after the final episode, making it a worthwhile addition to any watchlist.
First Frost is a deeply emotional and beautifully crafted drama that tells the story of Wen Yifan (played by Zhang Ruonan), a reserved and introverted news reporter who carries the weight of past trauma, and Sang Yan (played by Bai Jingting), her first love who re-enters her life after years of separation. The drama explores themes of healing, second chances, and the quiet strength it takes to confront one’s past.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟵.𝟱/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan’s life is marked by pain—her father’s death, her mother’s abandonment, and the trauma of sexual assault inflicted by a family member. These experiences have shaped her into someone who keeps to herself, living a simple yet lonely life. When Sang Yan reappears, their reconnection sparks her journey toward healing. The slow-burn romance is tender and realistic, with Sang Yan patiently navigating Yifan’s walls while grappling with his unresolved feelings.
The pacing is deliberate, allowing the characters’ emotions and growth to unfold naturally. While some viewers may find the slower moments challenging, the payoff is deeply rewarding. The drama also handles sensitive topics like trauma and sexual assault with care, showing Yifan’s struggles and gradual healing in a way that feels authentic and respectful.
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Wen Yifan is the heart of the story, and Zhang Ruonan delivers a breathtaking performance. She perfectly captures Yifan’s quiet strength, social awkwardness, and the emotional scars she carries. Her portrayal is nuanced, from her guarded demeanour to the subtle shifts in her expressions as she begins to open up. Yifan’s journey is relatable and heartbreaking, making her a character you root for from the very beginning.
Sang Yan, played by Bai Jingting, is a green-flag male lead who balances stoicism with unwavering devotion. His love for Yifan is patient and selfless, and Bai Jingting portrays this with a quiet intensity that makes Sang Yan unforgettable. The chemistry between the two leads is electric, with every glance and interaction brimming with unspoken emotions.
The supporting cast, including Yifan’s close friend, Qiao Qiao, and Sang Yan’s loyal friend, Haoan, adds depth to the story through Haoan's family background and the development of his grandparents opening up to each other.
𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗹:
One of the most significant changes in First Frost from the novel is the handling of Wen Yifan’s confrontation with her abuser. In the novel, Yifan demonstrates remarkable growth by facing her uncle head-on, symbolising her strength and resilience after years of trauma. However, in the drama, she runs away to Hong Kong when her uncle reappears, leading to a more prolonged arc of her hiding and struggling to confront her past. This change has sparked mixed reactions among viewers.
While the novel portrays Yifan as someone who has grown strong enough to stand up to her abusers, the drama takes a different approach, emphasising her vulnerability and the ongoing impact of her trauma. Some viewers feel this shift undermines her character development, making her seem more like a damsel in distress reliant on Sang Yan to “save” her. In the novel, Yifan’s ability to confront her uncle directly is a pivotal moment of empowerment, whereas the drama’s version leans more heavily on Sang Yan’s role as her protector.
Additionally, the drama alters the setting of the confrontation. In the novel, Yifan’s uncle waits for her outside her workplace like a stalker, while in the drama, he becomes a security guard at her office, adding a layer of tension and intrusion into her daily life. While this change heightens the drama’s stakes, it also shifts the focus away from Yifan’s agency, which is a defining trait in the novel.
Despite these changes, the drama still captures the emotional core of Yifan’s journey. Her struggles with trauma from SA, her gradual healing, and her reliance on Sang Yan’s unwavering support are portrayed with sensitivity and depth. However, for fans of the novel, the drama’s decision to deviate from Yifan’s empowered confrontation may feel like a missed opportunity to fully showcase her growth.
𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗮𝗻:
Sang Yan has been a point of discussion among viewers, with some labelling him as “unrealistic” or a “simp” for his unwavering devotion to Wen Yifan. However, this criticism overlooks the depth of his character and the emotional intelligence he displays throughout the story. Sang Yan is not just a love-struck romantic; he is a man who understands the weight of Yifan’s trauma and chooses to stand by her, offering patience and support without expecting anything in return.
In Episode 28, Sang Yan reflects on his younger self, acknowledging how his pride and immaturity once clouded his judgment. He admits to misunderstanding Yifan’s actions in the past and expresses regret for not being there for her when she needed him most. This moment of vulnerability highlights his growth and underscores his commitment to making amends.
Sang Yan’s love for Yifan is selfless and rooted in a desire to see her live a happy, fulfilling life. He doesn’t see himself as a saviour but as someone who wants to ensure she knows she’s not alone. His actions—whether it’s searching for her tirelessly when she runs away or quietly supporting her as she heals—are driven by a deep sense of care and responsibility.
While some viewers have criticized the dynamic between Sang Yan and Yifan, arguing that she doesn’t reciprocate his efforts enough, it’s important to remember that Yifan’s journey is one of healing. Her reserved nature and struggles with trust make it difficult for her to express her feelings openly. However, her love for Sang Yan is evident in subtle ways, such as cooking for him or standing by him during difficult times.
Sang Yan’s character is a refreshing departure from the stereotypical male leads often seen in dramas. He is emotionally intelligent, patient, and devoted—a true green flag. Rather than being a “doormat,” he is a man who understands the complexities of love and trauma, making him one of the most compelling characters in the story.
𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴/𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting are the standout stars of First Frost. Zhang Ruonan embodies Wen Yifan’s vulnerability and resilience with such authenticity that it’s impossible not to feel deeply for her character. Bai Jingting, as Sang Yan, delivers a masterclass in subtle acting, conveying layers of emotion through his eyes and body language. Together, they create a love story that feels raw, real, and deeply moving. Their chemistry was off the charts!! Each romantic scene, each emotional and solemn scene was portrayed so well. You could see the gaze in their eyes, the micro-expressions and movements. It felt as if you were seeing it happen right in front of your eyes as a real moment.
The supporting cast also shines, with each actor bringing their characters to life in a way that enhances the story. The villains, particularly Yifan’s family members, are portrayed with such conviction that they evoke genuine disdain, further highlighting the emotional stakes of the drama.
𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗿...
The proposal and ending in EP 32 was the best I've seen among all proposal scenes... (I was in tears ㅠㅡㅠ) Bai Jingting and Zhang Ruonan delivered the emotions and micro-expressions so well SLHTKTLKHKGSKT (crying again).
𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The soundtrack of First Frost is a perfect complement to the story, enhancing its emotional depth. The melancholic yet hopeful tones of the instrumental tracks mirror Yifan’s journey, while the lyrical songs add poignancy to key moments. Tracks like the opening theme and the ending song capture the bittersweet essence of the drama, making the music an integral part of the viewing experience. My favourites were the opening- 任性 (Willful) - 五月天 (Mayday), ending- 是你 (It’s You) - 李宇春 (Li Yuchun), My Dear - 张洢豪 (Zhang Yihao), 晚点 (Later) by Zhang Bichen. Bai Jingting also sang one of the OST tracks. So did Zhang Ruonan and Zhang Miaoyi as a duet and Chen Haosen did as well. The OST was lovely!
𝗖𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝘆: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
The cinematography in First Frost is stunning, with each frame thoughtfully composed to reflect the characters’ emotions. The use of lighting and colour palettes—cool tones for Yifan’s loneliness and warmer hues as she begins to heal—adds visual depth to the story. The flashbacks to their high school days are beautifully shot, creating a nostalgic contrast to their present lives. The attention to detail in the sets and locations further immerses viewers in the world of the drama.
𝗥𝗲𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟵.𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a drama that rewards multiple viewings. Its layered storytelling, emotional depth, and standout performances ensure that each rewatch reveals new nuances to appreciate. While the heavier themes may make it a challenging rewatch for some, the tender romance and heartfelt moments make it a story worth revisiting.
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: 𝟭𝟬/𝟭𝟬
First Frost is a poignant and beautifully executed drama that explores the complexities of love, trauma, and healing. Its strong performances, emotional storytelling, and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the world of C-dramas. While it may not be perfect, its ability to touch the heart and inspire reflection makes it a must-watch for fans of slow-burn romances and character-driven narratives.
For those seeking a drama that balances heartbreak with hope and offers a profound exploration of human resilience, First Frost is a gem worth experiencing. It’s not just a love story—it’s a journey of healing, growth, and the quiet strength it takes to find happiness.
Despite the changes from the novel, First Frost remains a beautifully crafted drama with strong performances, a compelling storyline, and stunning cinematography. Zhang Ruonan and Bai Jingting deliver standout performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The drama’s exploration of trauma, healing, and second-chance love is both poignant and relatable. It is a story about resilience, love, and the quiet strength it takes to heal. It’s a drama that lingers in your heart long after the final episode, making it a worthwhile addition to any watchlist.
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