Kaitlyn Dever stars as the controversial wellness influencer Belle Gibson in Netflix's new series, Apple Cider Vinegar, which delves deep through the duality of lifestyle branding and truth. Inspired by true events, the series tells the captivating tale of two young women who strive to cure their life-threatening ailments through health and wellness, attracting the attention of a growing online audience. Unfortunately, their story succumbs to peril as revelations surface about Gibson's deceitful cancer diagnosis, leading her empire to crumble.
According to the show's synopsis, "This is a true-ish story based on a lie, about the rise and fall of a wellness empire; the culture built it up and the people who tore it down." This narrative arc not only emphasizes the allure of wellness culture but also serves as cautionary insight about the scope of manipulation involved within it.
Alongside Dever, the ensemble cast includes Alycia Debnam-Carey, Aisha Dee, Tilda Cobham-Hervey, Mark Coles Smith, Ashley Zukerman, and Susie Porter, each portraying characters intertwined within Gibson's complex web of wellness claims.
The series does not just rise from its dramatic story but also captivates the audience with its vibrant soundtrack, crafted expertly by Australian composer Cornel Wilczek. Known for works like the horror film Talk to Me and the Netflix series Clickbait, Wilczek brings his signature style to the score, setting the tone for the dramatic evolution of the narrative.
Apple Cider Vinegar features pop needle drops from the 2010s and beyond, imbuing the series with sonic nostalgia and vigor. The music selections act as emotional conduits for both moments of triumph and despair. Some notable songs featured include Britney Spears' upbeat anthem "Toxic" and Katy Perry's empowering call to action with "Roar.“
The first episode entitled "Toxic" sets the stage with songs like Of Monsters and Men’s "Dirty Paws" and KT Tunstall's "Suddenly I See," reflecting the highs and lows of Gibson's wellness empire. The episodes continue to weave through popular hits, capturing the emotional essence of each scenario.
Episode by episode, the soundscape enhances the storytelling. For example, the second episode "Clean Sheets" features Carly Rae Jepsen's hopeful tune "I Really Like You" alongside Remi Wolf's contemporary sound. Such selections provide levity during Gibson's rise and establish the groundwork for the turmoil to follow.
With the third episode, "Pink Dolphins," the tone shifts again, marked by Sia's infectious hit “Clap Your Hands” and Calvin Harris' catchy “Feel So Close.” Each track underpins Gibson's ascent, culminating fully as the layered narrative progresses.
The soundtrack remains varied to maintain viewer engagement, pooling various vibes from different musical genres. The fourth episode, "Mama Aya," introduces The Preatures’ melodic track “Is This How You Feel?” inviting reflections on Gibson’s false persona. It suggests shimmers of doubt against her constructed reality.
By the sixth episode titled "Tapeworm," the emotional stakes are raised, with poignant tracks like "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" by Death Cab for Cutie echoing the darker turns of Gibson's story, encapsulating the fallibility of appearances and the consequences of deceit.
Music enthusiasts won't be disappointed as the remaining episodes feature chart-toppers like Doja Cat's "Paint The Town Red" and psychedelic harmonies coming from Santigold's "Can't Get Enough Of Myself." The diverse array of songs not only entertains but also cleverly comments on the tumultuous rise and inevitable downfall of Gibson's empire.
Overall, Apple Cider Vinegar is not just another dramatization of sensationalized events. Rather, it offers audiences deep reflections on the phenomena of influencer culture, the alarming desperation for validation, and the dangerous consequences of deception. The series is now streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to engage with the story of caution and belief.