A fresh TV show is back on Netflix. If you're into real-life drama, it's a must-watch. The series is based on a real-life case of a beautiful Australian, Belle Gibson. She was a renowned Instagrammer with a wellness empire. Younger people might not know but back in the day, social media was different. It was simpler and Instagram was more like a photo scrapbook.

        Step into the 2012-2015 era, Belle Gibson rose to fame as a wellness guru. She claimed to have a terminal brain cancer to gain followers. By selling wellness products to people. Her main motivation was to make a profit. In reality she had no illness at all. The show Apple Cider Vinegar is the perfect mix of drama and reality.

        In the show's trailer is a hint of what's to come. Gibson's rise to fame and then her dramatic downfall. "A perfect catchy song and dance" can be imagined. Convinced of her lies, Gibson's coworkers, friends and family jumped on her journey. The first episode starts with Gibson's meeting with PR rep Hek. Hek tries to manage the crisis but instead gets manipulated by Gibson. A catch phrase from Gibson is "the arrogance is criminal. " This phrase highlights the main character's scheme.

        Belle Gibson's portrait in the show is spot on. She's deluded but Kaitlyn Dever portrays her perfectly. Dever's performance shows a mother who appears to be perfect but shows her flaws to viewers. Her methods of manipulation are clear. She dyes her hair to match her sons. This is done to convince herself and others that she has a family, until it all falls apart. Gibson’s charismatic lies are a hit and miss. The viewer can’t help but wonder how anyone can be so blind to the truth.

        It's not easy to balance real-life drama with fictional elements.

        The show does this well. The drama in the family of Belle Gibson is secondary to Gibson’s story. Lucy, Clifton, and many others are all affected by Gibson. They all have their own story. From the first episode, the show sets the tone. A character's story is essential to the plot. Gibson’s perfect lies are revealed. She is manipulative and convincing when telling her story.

        Gibson's character is compelling but deceiving. She manipulates and influences all those around her. Lucy, Gibson’s closest friend, is manipulated by her. Lucy’s character is where Gibson's story comes full circle. Lucy is a breast cancer patient who believes Gibson’s fake story. Lucy almost has a breakthrough until she realizes the truth.  Lucy is Gibson's host.

        In the series, Gibson's character is portrayed as a caring and considerate health advocate. She shows herself to be someone who cares about others. But then she converges her own health issue and her husband's.

        The show takes place in early 2010s. The times are simpler and social media is less intense. The show hits those notes well. Hipstamatic and Girlfriend Magazine are mentioned. These are iconic items of the 2010s. Aussie culture is also a part of the show.

        If you are a fan of true crime and drama, this show is for you. It is a must-watch for everyone who likes a good story. The show is available to stream on Netflix. It is a fun trip back in time and a fascinating true story. The series will keep you on the edge of your seat with its twists and turns.

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