Netflix Releases a Swanky New Adaptation of The Decameron

A new adaptation of Giovanni Boccaccio’s classic work, The Decameron, has dropped on Netflix, and it’s definitely not what you might expect. While Boccaccio’s story is set during the ravages of the Black Death, this version feels more like a lively romp rather than a somber tale of survival.

The show is crafted by showrunner Kathleen Jordan, who takes the premise of wealthy folks hunkering down in a beautiful Italian villa and fills it with drama, humor, and a clever splash of modern social commentary. While Boccaccio’s characters are battling plague-induced despair, the characters in this series are more preoccupied with their own juicy scandals and wild desires.

At the heart of the action is Pampinea, played by girls’ Zosia Mamet, who serves as the matriarch of the villa. She’s not your typical wise leader; instead, she’s depicted as a bit tyrannical, creating chaos among her guests who include the quirky and fun Misia, played by Saoirse-Monica Jackson from Derry Girls.

The show features a range of characters, including the hyper-religious Neifile and the opportunist Panfilo, alongside the sexy doctor Dioneo. In a twist, Tindaro is transformed from a mere servant in Boccaccio’s work to a rich, clueless nobleman, adding layers to the ensemble’s dynamics.

One of the more distinctive aspects of this adaptation is how it embraces the ‘pandemic theme. Despite being set in the 14th century, there are hints and elements that relate to today’s Covid-19 experiences. The characters’ constant hedonism serves as a stark contrast to the serious realities outside their lavish hideaway.

The show’s humor is sharp, and while it aims for laugh-out-loud moments, some critics suggest that the endless antics can become tiresome. Each scene cranks the volume of zaniness up to eleven, making it tricky to find moments that genuinely resonate.

Moreover, the show isn’t just shallow fun; it does touch on some serious themes. Issues of class dynamics and the struggles of women in the face of societal decay are explored. The servant class takes bold steps in increasingly outrageous ways, ultimately leading to a collision of social contracts that challenges the nobles in the villa.

As the story unfolds, expect a mix of loving homage to the original material paired with an edgy twist reminiscent of shows like Love Island. Each episode is packed with wild encounters, petty feuds, and laugh-out-loud moments, presenting a tumultuous narrative where survival isn’t just about living; it’s about outmaneuvering and outsmarting each other.