A compelling new teen drama series has captured viewers' attention and achieved remarkable success on Netflix's UK charts. Finding Her Edge, a Canadian production centred on the competitive world of ice skating, has soared to become the fifth most-watched series in the country just days after its release.
Perfect Critical Reception
The series has achieved what many productions only dream of - a flawless 100% rating on the influential review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. This perfect score comes alongside its rapid ascent up the streaming platform's popularity rankings, indicating both critical acclaim and strong audience engagement.
Compelling Storyline and Characters
Adapted from Jennifer Iacopelli's novel, which draws inspiration from Jane Austen's classic Persuasion, the series follows Adriana Russo, portrayed by Madelyn Keys. Adriana is a figure skating star who returns to the sport two years after her gold medallist mother's tragic death. Faced with the opportunity to continue her family's Olympic legacy and save their financially struggling ice rink, she seizes the chance despite her reservations.
The drama intensifies when Adriana must partner with Brayden Elliot, played by Cale Ambrozic, described as the cocky bad boy of ice dancing. Their reluctant partnership becomes the centrepiece of the series, with undeniable chemistry on the ice contrasting with their personal conflicts.
Complex Relationships and Family Dynamics
Complications arise when Adriana's former ice-dancing partner and ex-boyfriend, Freddie O'Connell (Olly Atkins), arrives at her family's elite ice rink with other Canadian Olympic hopefuls. The series explores the tension between past relationships and new partnerships, creating a layered narrative that extends beyond typical teen drama tropes.
Show creator Shelley Scarrow, known for Degrassi: The Next Generation, described the series as more than just a soapy YA drama. "I set out to make it much more than that; it's a layered family drama about a fractured family finding their path back together," she explained to Tudum. "Adriana feels the weight of the world on her shoulders. In taking on the responsibility of saving her family's rink, which is her mother's legacy, she suddenly finds herself navigating all types of new challenges and pressures, both on and off the ice."
Critical and Audience Response
Reviewers have praised the series for its engaging storytelling and character development. Pop Culture Planet noted in their review: "Finding Her Edge is at its best when it leans into Adriana and Brayden's connection, the Russo sisterhood, and the magic on the ice. There are surprising standout performances that have me eager to see what they tackle next."
Solzy at the Movies described it as "a binge-worthy viewing experience," while Collider added that it provides "easy-to-watch, aimless fun" for those seeking YA drama entertainment.
Viewer Anna shared her positive experience: "Honestly, Finding Her Edge surprised me in the best way. It's easy to watch but also really meaningful, and the characters feel genuine rather than overdone. The story pulls you in quickly, and by the end you actually want more."
Authentic Ice Skating Elements
The series benefits from authentic ice skating representation, featuring cameos from five-time Canadian figure skating champions Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier. British figure skating champions Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson also contribute their expertise, voicing television commentators within the show.
Original author Jennifer Iacopelli makes a brief appearance as a librarian in the penultimate episode, adding another layer of authenticity to the adaptation.
Balanced Critical Perspective
While the series has received widespread praise, some critics have offered more measured assessments. The Times of India noted: "Despite the gorgeous costumes, beautiful visuals of blankets of snow, some lovely ice-dancing sequences, Finding Her Edge doesn't quite find its edge, owing to its uneven plot, some predictable story arcs and a forced love-triangle."
The Hollywood Reporter suggested it might be best enjoyed as background entertainment during daily activities, describing it as "blunt, inoffensive and occasionally diverting without ever being completely engrossing."
Despite these critiques, the series' perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and rapid chart success demonstrate its strong appeal to both critics and audiences. The eight-episode series, which premiered on Netflix on January 22, continues to attract viewers with its blend of competitive ice skating drama, family relationships, and romantic tension.
As Netflix continues to expand its library of original content, Finding Her Edge represents another successful entry in the teen drama genre, combining sports competition with personal growth narratives in a visually compelling package that has clearly resonated with UK audiences.
