"Gadis Kretek" Enters the Ranks of Netflix's Most Popular International Original Series of 2023

According to Netflix & Chiffres, a French film bulletin, *Gadis Kretek* was named one of the most popular international Netflix original series in the world in 2023.

The series received a score of 8.3 points, placing *Gadis Kretek* in the top two globally.

*Gadis Kretek* tells the story of Soeraya (played by Ario Bayu), a dying owner of the Djagad Raja kretek (clove cigarette) factory. In his remaining days, he wants to meet Jeng Yah (Dian Sastrowardoyo), a woman he loved in the past.

Jeng Yah is the daughter of the owner of one of the most famous cigarette factories in "City M." Although quiet, she aspires to become the maker of the best kretek spice blend.

However, she must contend with a patriarchal culture that hinders her dreams.

Soeraya then asks his three children to search for Jeng Yah throughout Java. Through their search, many things are revealed, including family secrets behind the kretek business.

Above *Gadis Kretek*, *The Railway Men* is listed as the most popular Netflix original series. This Indian series received a score of 8.5 points.

This rating is based on Internet Movie Database (IMDb) ratings with a minimum of 300 user ratings up to December 2023.

The following is a list of the most popular international Netflix original series globally in 2023, according to Netflix & Chiffres:

1. *The Railway Men* (India): 8.5 points
2. *Gadis Kretek* (Indonesia): 8.3 points
3. *Daily Dose of Sunshine* (South Korea): 8.3 points
4. *Wave Makers* (Taiwan): 8.2 points
5. *Bloodhounds* (South Korea): 8.1 points
6. *Kaala Paani* (India): 8 points
7. *Sanctuary* (Japan): 8 points
8. *1670* (Poland): 8 points
9. *Eva Lasting* (Colombia): 8 points
10. *Love to Hate You* (South Korea): 7.9 points

(See also: "Money Heist: Berlin", the Most Popular Netflix Series Globally at the End of 2023)