The new Netflix show, The Decameron, draws inspiration from Giovanni Boccaccio's short story collection set during the Black Death, offering a unique take on a pandemic-themed dark comedy. The show follows a group of characters, including nobles and servants, seeking refuge in an Italian countryside villa to escape the plague.
The show's showrunner explains that the intention behind The Decameron was to explore the slice of life moments during a pandemic, drawing parallels between historical times and the modern-day experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the show's wine-soaked sex romp premise, it manages to blend deep sadness and laughter in a compelling way.
The creator of the show aimed to capture the essence of Boccaccio's original work while infusing it with a contemporary twist. By highlighting the awkward and strange interactions that are part of everyday life, the show aims to resonate with audiences by offering a mix of quirkiness and relatability.
Through its unique tone of dark comedy, The Decameron aims to provide a soap opera-like experience that is binge-worthy and engaging for viewers. The show's star emphasizes the importance of incorporating elements of strangeness and quirk to create a narrative that feels both removed from reality yet honest in its portrayal.
By delving into themes of escapism and human connection, The Decameron seeks to offer a fresh perspective on storytelling while staying true to the spirit of Boccaccio's original intention with the text. The show is now available for streaming on Netflix, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a world that blends historical inspiration with modern sensibilities.
