Melbourne and regional Victoria dazzle as the backdrop of the new Netflix drama, Apple Cider Vinegar. The six-part series was shot almost entirely on location, taking advantage of the city’s unmistakable energy, iconic laneways, and vibrant food and coffee culture.
Director and co-executive producer Jeffrey Walker, alongside series creator Samantha Strauss, made it a priority to stage Melbourne as an ambitious, cinematic setting. “We wanted to really show Melbourne as an aspirational place,” says Strauss.
More than 100 locations across the city are featured in the series, from downtown Melbourne to the sleepy outer suburbs; hidden inner-city gems, as well as parks, bars, and other “funky little corners”, as producer, Louise Gough puts it.
“This wasn’t one of those shoots where we had a big soundstage and built everything,” says Director Jeffrey Walker. “We explored every corner of Melbourne to tell this story. Being able to shoot real locations added a freedom to the filming, and we tried to make a character of each of those locations.” Because Apple Cider Vinegar shot quickly, moving from location to location, “there was a real fanaticism and energy which matched the propulsive pacing of the show,” he adds.
Aspects of the city’s character extend into other production elements, like costuming which reflect the vibe of popular Melbourne neighborhoods like Fitzroy and St Kilda. “It’s rockabilly, but also vintage cardigans and little dresses,” explains costume designer Cappi Ireland. “It’s a very Melbourne aesthetic.”
Beyond the urban pulse, Apple Cider Vinegar showcases the breadth of scenic diversity on offer across regional Victoria. Shooting took place in the picturesque wine country of the Yarra Valley, the lush mountains and forests of the Dandenong Ranges, and the striking coastal seascape of the Mornington Peninsula.
“I think we’re making shows in Australia that need and want to travel around the world,” Director Jeffrey Walker explains. “The production value has increased, the budgets have increased, and what writers are being challenged to write and explore is high concept…it’s very new and exciting that these shows with an Australian voice are going to be seen by a big global audience.”
Bringing productions to Melbourne means more than just stunning locations. To tap into a film-friendly environment with world-class crews and competitive financial incentives, contact VicScreen’s Head of Incentives, Joe Brinkmann, at [email protected] or visit vicscreen.vic.gov.au