The Decameron review: This Love Island-style sex romp is a hoot
As a dedicated gamer and history buff, I’ve always been intrigued by tales of survival and human nature’s response to crises. So when I heard about Netflix’s new production, “The Decameron,” I was immediately drawn in. The setting – medieval Italy during the Black Death – promised an enthralling exploration of how people cope with adversity, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
During the coronavirus pandemic, celebrities, billionaires, and bankers all retreated to their luxurious homes, while a distinct divide between the rich and the less fortunate became apparent. A comparable scenario unfolded in Netflix’s The Decameron, as the illness swept through medieval Europe.
I’m really excited about the new drama-comedy that’s set in Florence during the time of the Black Death. The population is being decimated by buboes at an alarming rate. In this grim scene, we see John Hannah from “The Mummy” succumb to it, with disgusting pustules spreading across his neck. His servant Licisca, played by Tanya Reynolds from “Sex Education,” tries to protect herself from the putrid smell and infection by stuffing daisies into her nostrils. It’s an unusual but effective method, don’t you think?
As a seasoned travel writer who has explored the world’s most luxurious estates and villas, I can’t help but be intrigued by this invitation to Villa Santa in the countryside. Escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, particularly the pompous nobles and their entourages, has always been a welcome respite for me. My experiences have taught me that the simple pleasures of nature and the tranquility of the rural landscape can rejuvenate the soul. So, I’m looking forward to witnessing firsthand the charm and elegance of Villa Santa and the unique dynamics between its aristocratic residents and their devoted staff.
In the Tuscan countryside, a week-after-week saga of drunken love affairs and social maneuvering unfolds among the visitors at the absent viscount’s villa. Much like the contestants on a typical season of “Love Island,” these individuals compete and bed-hop in their quest for dominance. As time goes by, what began as an idyllic rural escape transforms into a struggle for survival, mirroring the chaos of “Lord of the Flies.”
A person well-acquainted with Giovanni Boccaccio’s 14th-century short story collection, Decameron, might find this eight-part series puzzling. While they share a title and framework, their resemblances essentially stop there.
As a fan, I’d describe it this way: In the beginning of The Decameron, we are drawn in with a quirky introduction featuring scurrying rats. These rats form a vivid and symbolic opening sequence that resembles a skull and other intricate designs, much like an artfully choreographed dance or a captivating drone show.
Overcome the initial discomfort and tonal adjustments, and this Netflix dramedy becomes a enjoyable watch. The comic timing is spot on, with a talented cast such as Saoirse-Monica Jackson (from “Derry Girls”) portraying a sapphic servant, Zosia Mamet (“Girls” star) as the unpredictable viscountess-in-waiting, and Tony Hale, reminiscent of his role in “Veep,” as an eager-to-please yet underappreciated lackey.
The majority of the enjoyment from this show comes less from its storyline and more from the quirky antics of its eccentric characters. For instance, there’s Douggie McMeekin, a peculiar hypochondriac who constantly frets about his health. He’s accompanied by Amar Chadha-Patel, an outrageously flamboyant doctor.
A noblewoman named Lou Gala, who is deeply religious, finds herself intrigued by the spectacle of peasants flogging themselves in public without shirts. Meanwhile, her husband Karan Gill harbors a hidden financial crisis despite appearing wealthy. These are just a few among the many complex characters you’ll encounter.
After figuring out which character is who and accepting that everyone speaks with distinct, non-Italian accents, the absurdity of this “Horrible Histories” depiction of the plague era draws you in.
In addition to the impressive acting, Netflix spared no expense on the sets and costumes as well.
In the bustling city, the struggle for existence feels diminished and comically overshadowed by the petty, status-seeking battles taking place within the secluded villa’s luxurious gardens. The stakes of their climb become increasingly difficult to dismiss as half of Europe lies in ruins around them.
Just like the charlatans, nobles, and servants in Villa Santa, you’ll soon find yourself entangled in this world’s intricate workings. Before you know it, you might look up from within the villa’s walls to find that the plague has subsided and eight episodes have already passed by.
The Decameron is available to stream on Netflix from July 25.
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2024-07-25 11:49