Ritesh Sharma
Netflix’s ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ is the story of Belle Gibson (Kaitlyn Dever), a rising wellness influencer who has built a devoted following by documenting her battle with cancer. Charismatic and seemingly inspiring, she has turned her suffering into a brand—but beneath the surface, Belle is anything but sincere. Manipulative and morally ambiguous, she thrives in the gray area between truth and deception. When suspicions arise that she may be faking her illness for fame, her carefully crafted image begins to crack.
As the scrutiny intensifies, the series dives into the dark side of influencer culture, blending sharp satire with wickedly dark humor. Set against a backdrop of lavish locations — from sleek penthouses to sun-drenched wellness retreats — ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ presents a glossy yet unsettling portrait of internet fame. Stylish and cutting, it’s a modern cautionary tale about the fine line between authenticity and performance in the digital age.
Apple Cider Vinegar Filming Locations
The primary shooting location for ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ is the state of Victoria in Australia, particularly the city of Melbourne, which provides a stunning and luxurious backdrop for the series’ darkly comedic narrative. Known for its vibrant culture, eclectic architecture, and thriving arts scene, Melbourne offers a unique blend of modern sophistication and historical charm. The city’s upscale neighborhoods, sleek skyscrapers, and high-end restaurants perfectly complement the world of influencer culture, creating a seamless setting for Belle’s story to unfold.
Melbourne’s picturesque streets, stylish cafes, and expansive parks are strategically utilized to bring the film’s lavish and glossy aesthetic to life. Filming took place from December 14, 2023, to February 19, 2024, during the summer months, allowing the production to capture the city’s sun-drenched allure, adding a golden sheen to the series’ visually captivating locations. Melbourne’s stunning scenery enhances the high-stakes drama of the series, making it an essential character in the narrative.
Melbourne, Australia
The city of Melbourne, in the southeastern part of Victoria, Australia, is known for its eclectic charm, vibrant arts scene, and a blend of modern sophistication and historical beauty. It provides the perfect backdrop for ‘Apple Cider Vinegar,’ with its diverse locations serving as a visual representation of the series’ luxurious yet morally complex narrative. The trendy neighborhoods of Fitzroy and Collingwood seem like fitting locations to capture the influencer-driven, hip aesthetic of Belle’s character with their artsy vibes, boutique cafes, and street art. For scenes highlighting Belle’s high-end lifestyle, Southbank, known for its upscale dining, luxurious apartments, and the iconic Crown Casino, could provide an ideal backdrop to reflect the wealth and glamour of her carefully crafted persona.
The beachside suburb of St. Kilda seems like it could offer a serene and picturesque setting for wellness retreat moments, contrasting with Belle’s darker side. The Melbourne CBD, with its sleek skyscrapers and chic rooftop bars, likely adds urban sophistication to scenes highlighting Belle’s rise to fame. To balance the opulence, the Royal Botanic Gardens, with its lush greenery and peaceful environment, could provide an aesthetic contrast to the chaos and manipulation unfolding in Belle’s life. These iconic spots might contribute to the series’ layered narrative, blending beauty with a biting exploration of modern fame and deception.
Melbourne has long been a popular destination for filmmakers, with its diverse scenery and dynamic urban environments making it the perfect setting for a wide range of genres. Over the years, the city has played a key role in the production of several notable films and TV series. The production team of titles such as ‘The Society,‘ ‘Bloom,’ ‘The Dressmaker,’ and ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ was filmed in and around Melbourne, utilizing its eclectic architecture and scenic landscapes, spanning from stunning urban and suburban backdrops with its sleek apartment complexes and lush outdoor locations to the rural and outback beauty of Victoria for its desert-like terrains. All of the aforementioned cityscapes make Melbourne a versatile filming hub, lending itself seamlessly to projects like ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ that blend luxury, drama, and dark humor.
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