First Love is inspired by two iconic songs by singer Hikaru Utada: “First Love” and “Hatsukoi” (“First Love”). More than just a simple romantic drama, it’s a deeply nostalgic visual and emotional experience.
Written and directed by Yuri Kanchiku, the series follows the moving story of Yae Noguchi (Hikari Mitsushima/Rikako Yagi) and Harumichi Namiki (Takeru Satoh/Taisei Kido) over more than twenty years.
The narrative flows delicately between two timelines, showing how fate and the choices of adult life pulled them apart, and how a series of subtle, emotional coincidences slowly brings them back together, forcing them to question whether it’s possible to rekindle that unforgettable first love.
Visually, it’s a work of art. The series uses a vibrant color palette and exquisite cinematography to distinguish and enhance both eras, beautifully highlighting the stunning landscapes of Hokkaido.
Takeru Satoh and Hikari Mitsushima convey a melancholic and heartfelt chemistry, while the younger actors perfectly capture the innocence and intensity of first love with great authenticity.
This series is ideal for fans of profound romantic dramas and stories that treat nostalgia as a character of its own. If you enjoy Asian productions with high production value, a slow and contemplative pace, and a focus on emotional growth, you’ll absolutely love it.
Get your tissues ready, this is a story that truly touches the heart.
First Love is a hidden gem on Netflix. It’s more than a romantic series; it’s a beautifully filmed meditation on how our first love shapes who we are, even when we believe we’ve left it behind.
Written and directed by Yuri Kanchiku, the series follows the moving story of Yae Noguchi (Hikari Mitsushima/Rikako Yagi) and Harumichi Namiki (Takeru Satoh/Taisei Kido) over more than twenty years.
The narrative flows delicately between two timelines, showing how fate and the choices of adult life pulled them apart, and how a series of subtle, emotional coincidences slowly brings them back together, forcing them to question whether it’s possible to rekindle that unforgettable first love.
Visually, it’s a work of art. The series uses a vibrant color palette and exquisite cinematography to distinguish and enhance both eras, beautifully highlighting the stunning landscapes of Hokkaido.
Takeru Satoh and Hikari Mitsushima convey a melancholic and heartfelt chemistry, while the younger actors perfectly capture the innocence and intensity of first love with great authenticity.
This series is ideal for fans of profound romantic dramas and stories that treat nostalgia as a character of its own. If you enjoy Asian productions with high production value, a slow and contemplative pace, and a focus on emotional growth, you’ll absolutely love it.
Get your tissues ready, this is a story that truly touches the heart.
First Love is a hidden gem on Netflix. It’s more than a romantic series; it’s a beautifully filmed meditation on how our first love shapes who we are, even when we believe we’ve left it behind.
Was this review helpful to you?
