Deceptive Influencer Belle Gibson
There are few stories as disheartening as that of Belle Gibson, the lifestyle influencer who gained notoriety through deceptive means. In the 2010s, Gibson fabricated a cancer diagnosis to promote alternative therapies and discourage cancer patients from seeking evidence-based medical treatment. Netflix’s latest series, Apple Cider Vinegar, dramatizes and mimics Gibson’s deceitful actions, creating a cynical portrayal of her infamous deceptions.
A Fictionalized Account
In the series, Belle Gibson, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, seeks to salvage her tarnished reputation with the help of a publicist in Los Angeles. The show delves into Gibson’s grandiose claims of curing terminal cancer through diet and explores the repercussions of her fraudulent activities. However, Apple Cider Vinegar takes liberties with the facts, presenting a distorted and disjointed timeline of events from Gibson’s life.
A Controversial Narrative Approach
Apple Cider Vinegar uses Gibson’s lies as a narrative device, weaving a story that blurs the lines between truth and fiction. The show introduces speculative details about Gibson’s past, adding to the confusion surrounding her actions and motivations. Rather than providing clarity on the real events, the series opts for sensationalism and ambiguity, leaving viewers to draw their conclusions.
A Critical Perspective
While the show portrays Belle Gibson in a villainous light, the secondary characters offer a nuanced exploration of themes like mortality and vulnerability. Debnam-Carey and Cobham-Hervey deliver compelling performances that add depth to the storyline, contrasting with Gibson’s self-centered narrative. Despite these moments of emotional resonance, Apple Cider Vinegar ultimately falls short in addressing the full scope of Gibson’s impact.
Questionable Ethical Choices
Reflecting on the show’s portrayal of Gibson and the sensationalized storytelling, viewers are confronted with the ethical implications of exploiting real-life events for entertainment. Apple Cider Vinegar may attempt to distance itself from Gibson’s actions through self-aware commentary, but the underlying glorification of her deceit is unmistakable. By sensationalizing her story, the series inadvertently perpetuates the problematic allure of fraudulent influencers.