Apple Cider Vinegar

Telling an unhinged and truly fascinating story, complete with pseudo-science and tall tales of overcoming cancer, is Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar. The miniseries is based on the real-life scam of Belle Gibson and sheds a nuanced light on the downsides of social media influencers and internet misinformation. Constantly dubbed within the show itself as “a true story based on a lie”, it follows Kaitlyn Dever as Belle, a wellness influencer apparently diagnosed with malignant brain cancer. Advocating for an alternative cure through natural treatments and a well-balanced diet, her following grows, catching the attention of Milla Blake, another influencer looking into alternative medicine for her illness.

Dynamic and extremely chaotic, the series is in perpetual motion, from the oscillating timeline to the constant shift of perspectives. This is perhaps reflective of the fast-paced environment of social media itself, with its evershifting trends, and never-ending cycle of news and (mis)information. Colour filters, stylish shots and excellent use of cinematography are important visual elements in Apple Cider Vinegar, both for aesthetic purposes and to highlight the contrast between the reality of Belle’s life against the rose-tinted image she tries to portray. 

Beyond the visual charm of the show, Dever also exudes an alluring energy that draws viewers in. Her charismatic performance makes it easy to believe why people would fall for Belle’s narrative. The transition from the powerful and inspirational woman that Belle presents to her followers, to the reality of her manipulative, attention-seeking and self-pitying personality, is also a seamless switch-up: Dever perfectly executes Belle’s trajectory, from her sudden rise to the top to her lies slowly being exposed as she descends into desperation.

Apple Cider Vinegar tackles some very ambitious subject matter, such as the divide between those who support alternative treatments versus science-backed medicine for cancer, and how far one can push someone into treating their illness. All of this is entangled in the dangerous and untrustworthy illusion of social media fame and influence. One poignant subplot that underlines these themes throughout the show is Lucy’s story: having cancer herself, she finds strength and inspiration in Belle, but as her health deteriorates, so does her relationship with her husband Justin, who begs her to continue treatment despite having given up on it herself, following Belle’s advice. The question arises of whether her enduring pain and surviving cancer are truly for her sake or his. The story highlights the very real consequences of Belle’s pretence, as well as the challenge many people face when it comes to their ailing loved ones: how much of it is for their health and sake, and how much is it for self-interested reasons of not wanting to let them go?

More than a story of one woman’s lies, Apple Cider Vinegar is a brilliant dive into the dark side of social media influence. It’s not only informative, but it’s also a very compelling think piece on mortality and what one chooses to do with the time they have left in this world. Beyond that, it’s a wild, visually bold ride, exploring how far some people will go for fame and attention.

Mae Trumata

Apple Cider Vinegar is released on Netflix on 6^th February 2025.

Watch the trailer for Apple Cider Vinegar here: