Netflix viewers hugely divided over streamer's quirky new period comedy

Virgin Radio

26 Jul 2024, 12:55

Decameron cast

Credit: Netflix

Viewers of Netflix’s latest star-studded series can’t agree on whether it’s an instant classic or complete disgrace.

The Decameron, a period black-comedy drama based on the 14th century Italian short stories of Giovanni Boccaccio, was released onto the streaming platform on Thursday, 25th July.

The show is set in 1348, and follows the raunchy and amusing exploits of several nobles and servants who retreat to the remote Villa Santa in order to try and avoid the Black Plague as it ravages the city of Florence.

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Sex Education star Tanya Reynolds, Mad Men actress Zosia Mamet, Derry Girls’ Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Arrested Development star Tony Hale and Willow’s Amar Chadha-Patel are just some of the big names who star in the eight episode series.

But the show has greatly divided viewers and reviewers so far, with some full of praise for its amusing stories but others very disappointed about how it adapts its medieval source material.

One Italian viewer took to X to complain: “Boccaccio spent years of his life writing a literary work of immense value for you to see it ruined in a series that only has the title of the Decameron (I don't think I want to continue beyond the 1st episode)" [comment translated from Italian].

“They Bridgertonized the decameron…” another X user penned, seemingly with discontent.

“Unfortunately, the new Netflix 'Decameron' is unfunny, unsexy, and - most bizarrely - leaves out the bit where the nobles tell each other stories,” reviewed literary historian Dr Dennis Duncan.

But many disagree with upset fans that the show is not a success. The i’s Julia Raeside wrote that the series was “the best comedy of the year” and gave the programme five stars.

Plus many viewers are singing its praises on social media, calling it “hilarious” and “unhinged” in all the best ways. 

“Really didn't know what to expect from #TheDecameron on @NetflixUK but really enjoyed it. I went from being baffled to snorting with laughter to shedding a little tear,” said one fan. Another shared: “I usually don't even like comedy series but #thedecameron on Netflix is hilarious.”

The Decameron is available to stream now on Netflix.

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