Apple Cider Vinegar

Enthralling recap of a story many of us Aussies know well, but made none the less enticing, I was totally gripped from start to finish.

I'm Australian and didn't even realise the actress playing Belle was American!!

Even if you know the story, there's still plenty of detail and character building that really builds on the nuances of those involved.

Great acting, great cast, loved the direction and cinematography. Also really great depiction of the so-called wellness industry, the slow build of Instagram and influencer culture. Part of you wonders if it had been successful without the lies.

Really proud the Aussie TV industry did the story so well - I binged it in a day!!

Great set up, great acting, necessary story-it's good to see a portrayal of influencing that accurately captures how horrific it can be instead of glamorising it. I found the switching timeline a bit confusing but I do think that was intentional. The whole show was a good blend of not so serious and very serious which I feel like is very hard to do. I liked how one of the characters spoke to the camera/audience at the beginning of each episode, it was original and really humanised them!

I'm mainly writing this to express how amazed I am at Kaitlyn Dever's Australian accent. I hated (this TV version of) Belle so much and I feel like only exceptional actors can make you truly hate the characters they portray. As a bonus it was lovely to see some of the other actors be able to use their natural accents :)

Netflix's 2025 miniseries Apple Cider Vinegar offers a gripping portrayal of the real-life scandal surrounding Australian wellness influencer Belle Gibson. The series delves into the murky waters of social media influence, health misinformation, and the consequences of deceit.

Watching this series was a deeply personal experience. We've often turned to social media for health advice, trusting influencers who promote alternative treatments and lifestyles. Apple Cider Vinegar served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking behind seemingly inspirational stories. It made me question how often I've taken such advice at face value without seeking professional medical opinions.

Positive Aspects:

• Stellar Performances: Kaitlyn Dever delivers a chilling and nuanced portrayal of Belle Gibson, capturing the character's manipulative charm and underlying insecurities. Alycia Debnam-Carey brings depth to Milla Blake, embodying the desperation and hope of someone grappling with a life-threatening illness.

• Thought-Provoking Narrative: The series adeptly critiques the wellness industry's darker side, highlighting how easily misinformation can spread in the digital age and the real-world consequences of such deceit.

• High Production Quality: From its sharp cinematography to a haunting musical score, the series maintains high production standards that enhance the storytelling experience.

Negative Aspects:

• Pacing Issues: Some viewers might find the series' pacing uneven, with certain episodes delving deeply into subplots that, while enriching, may detract from the central narrative.

• Emotional Intensity: Given its heavy themes, the series can be emotionally taxing, potentially making it challenging for viewers seeking lighter entertainment.

Conclusion: Apple Cider Vinegar is a compelling miniseries that sheds light on the perils of health misinformation and the ethical responsibilities of influencers. While it demands an emotional investment from its audience, the series rewards with powerful performances and a narrative that resonates in today's digital landscape.

This is a hard watch. Watching the mastectomy specifically had me in tears.

I not only have MS, but I am a breast cancer survivor.

"Natural" and "holistic" treatments can be a great companion to medical treatment, but it should never replace it.

I have dealt with this in both the cancer and MS communities. I have watched needless suffering and degrading of health and function as a result of these dangerous narratives.

And that's what makes this a good, yet infuriating and frustrating watch.

These people exist.

The fraud itself is frustrating enough, but those who have these diseases and encourage the same can be just as dangerous.

Good story telling, cringe main character well played.

Worth the time.

Apple Cider Vinegar tackles a critical and sensitive topic-exploiting vulnerable individuals for money and fame in an era dominated by social media. The subject matter is incredibly important, and the show earns credit for bringing such an issue to the forefront.

Despite its heavy themes, the overall presentation feels oddly unserious. The editing, in particular, gives the series a high school drama vibe, which undercuts the gravity of the topic at times. The dialogue itself is fine, but it's the editing choices that contribute to this lighthearted tone.

On the positive side, the performances are a standout element. The characters come across as well-developed, with the main actress delivering a remarkable performance. In particular, the segment revealing the truth and story of the girl who passed away is both inspiring and emotionally impactful, adding genuine depth to the narrative.

However, the pacing is a significant drawback-the story often feels dragged out, making it hard to stay fully engaged. Despite this, the core message still resonates strongly, making it a worthwhile watch for those interested in the issues it explores.

Overall, I'd rate Apple Cider Vinegar a 6 out of 10. It's recommended for viewers who value important social commentary, but be prepared for a somewhat slow and uneven experience.