ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Chinese Netflix Series "The Early Spring" Tops Global Charts, Sparks Domestic Backlash

other · 2026-09-10

"The Early Spring," a Chinese series on Netflix, has entered the top 10 in more than 20 countries, yet its reception within China has been contentious. Domestic viewers have taken issue with two aspects of the show: its portrayal of the country's workplace culture and the way the male lead belittles his female counterpart. The series' international ranking success stands in contrast to the criticism it has drawn from audiences at home.

Key facts

  • "The Early Spring" is a Chinese series available on Netflix.
  • It ranks among the top 10 series in over 20 countries.
  • Viewers in China have criticized the series.
  • Criticism targets its depiction of China's workplace culture.
  • Criticism also targets the male protagonist's belittlement of his female counterpart.
  • The series divides viewers at home despite its global ranking.

Entities

Institutions

  • Netflix

Locations

  • China

Sources