Finding Her Edge, the latest ice dancing drama on Netflix, offers viewers a blend of predictable teen drama and sports narrative without demanding much engagement. The series, developed by Shelley Scarrow and Jeff Norton, is based on the book by Jennifer Iacopelli, and it centers around Adriana Russo, played by Madelyn Keys, who is navigating her way through a tumultuous family dynamic centered on competitive ice dancing.
Adriana is the overlooked middle sister in a family with a storied skating legacy, having stepped back from her ice dancing career following her mother’s death. Her father’s, played by Harmon Walsh, one-dimensional characterization as a cynical ex-Olympian feels more like a caricature than a real person, adding to the show’s surface-level storytelling. The family’s training facility faces foreclosure, putting additional pressure on Adriana and her self-absorbed older sister Elise, portrayed by Alexandra Beaton, who is chasing Olympic glory. When Elise suffers an injury, Adriana reluctantly partners with the talented but arrogant Brayden (Cale Ambrozic), just as her ex-boyfriend Freddie (Olly Atkins) starts dating childhood friend Riley (Millie Davis) at the same rink.
The narrative arc in Finding Her Edge follows familiar tropes found in young adult dramas, including sibling rivalry, love triangles, and social media mishaps. While the series does offer its share of lighthearted moments and glimpses of character camaraderie, it fails to fully immerse viewers in its storylines. Despite these predictable elements, the show showcases the art of ice dancing and provides opportunities for romantic tension, even if the execution seems tailored for casual viewing rather than intense engagement.
However, the inconsistent performances of the ensemble cast detract from the overall impact of the series. The chemistry between Adriana and Brayden lacks the intensity described within the storyline, while secondary characters, like Riley, often fade into the background. Still, the series features enough humorous and heartwarming moments—especially the bond among the Russo sisters and Camille, their warm-hearted coach played by Meredith Forlenza—to make it watchable.
Overall, while Finding Her Edge is not a groundbreaking entry into the genre and won’t leave a lasting impression, it offers a harmless escape for those looking for light entertainment. The show may find its audience among those seeking a background distraction, making it suitable for casual viewers during mundane tasks like commuting or doing housework. However, in the crowded field of young adult dramas, it often struggles to stand out.