This is the first of only two films in the series that are actually based on the Wallander novels, the second being Den orolige mannen (2013). The rest are based on original stories by Wallander creator Henning Mankell.
In Sweden this and another two films of season 1 premiered in theaters: Mastermind (2005) and Hemligheten (2006). The rest of the season was released straight to video; only later was it shown on TV.
The title "Innan frosten" translates in English to "Before the Frost".