The Decameron: Don't Follow This Pandemic Survival Guide

Based on the famed novellas written in the 14th century by Giovanni Boccaccio, this Netflix series shares the story of a group of selfish nobles who escape the Black Plague in Florence by traveling to the Italian countryside. Due to their eclectic personalities and hidden motives, mayhem ensues at the villa they inhabit.

Set in 1348 and starring a talented ensemble cast, we are introduced to a distinct set of characters. Two classes are shown: the ignorant, narcissistic elites like Pampinea (Zosia Mamet) and Filomena (Jessica Plummer), and the loyal, beleaguered servants such as Misia (Saoirse Monica-Jackson) and Sirisco (Tony Hale). I liked this show; these social differences created comical misunderstandings that were entertaining to watch. As an admirer of Renaissance history, it scratched an itch in my brain. The costume design was incredibly authentic and detailed, adding more depth to the environment. With a Netflix budget, it was very easy to be transported into the chaotic world of Italian nobility.

The beginning was a bit slow for me; I did experience a viewing slump between the 2nd and 3rd episodes that had me debating if I wanted to continue watching. I'm just more accustomed to fast-paced melodramas, and I doubt any showrunner wants to hear those words. I just got somewhat bored with the continuous, lengthy conversations that comprised all of the scenes in the first few episodes. Eventually, it speeds up with the second half being more action-packed and entertaining. But you do have to wait a little bit.

Aside from that little bump, the show was great. Elements of comedy and drama were weaved together seamlessly, and they successfully contributed to the complete disarray experienced in this villa. It was intentionally satirical, using irony and exaggeration to ridicule the stupidity of these characters. The use of modern language added an extra component of humor and could easily resonate with a current audience. Not many would willingly watch this show if it incorporated genuine speech of the time, except for me and maybe a phoenetics professor who specializes in Renaissance Italian. It was really satisfying to watch the character developments, like Panfilo's (Karan Gill) evolution from cowardice to bravery and Tindaro's (Douggie McMeekin) growth from selfish to considerate (ish). This show was an impressive way of exploring timely themes like power struggles and class systems.