A refreshing look at upper-class society.

In recent years, creators seem to be completely changing their approach to period dramas, paying less attention to historical accuracy and more to actual stories and characters that viewers can relate to in the 21st century.

Regardless of the plot and the studio releasing said shows, these fictionalized stories, such as The Buccaneers, Bridgerton, and My Lady Jane, are attracting thousands of viewers and giving a second wind to the genre that previously catered to a completely different audience. Not wanting to quit the game, Netflix is about to drop another unexpected hit.

What Is The Decameron About?

Coming to Netflix on July 25, The Decameron is a new humorous yet dark period drama inspired by the tales of Giovanni Boccaccio’s classic book The Decameron. The book is structured into 100 tales told by several men and women of aristocracy, all of whom seek refuge from the Black Death in a secluded villa.

Just like Netflix’s other hit period drama, Bridgerton, The Decameron places a strong emphasis on the lives of the upper class, leaving everyone else out of the picture. But instead of romanticizing that way of life, The Decameron pokes fun at it, pointing out how absurd their worries are compared to the deadly threat the commoners face.

Surrounded by food, drink, and multiple sources of entertainment, the rich treat their forced retreat to the countryside as a vacation where they explore themselves, build relationships, and indulge their darkest desires.

The original book consists of stories of various genres, from romance to horror to erotica. And while the Netflix adaptation, created by Kathleen Jordan, won’t follow the original source to the letter, it will be as raunchy as you can imagine. However, be prepared: the show is a dark comedy at its premise, and it will not shy away from any shocking themes.

All 8 episodes of the show will be available to binge on Netflix in one day. So if you’re looking for something to break the cycle of repetitive shows and watch something you’ve never seen before, The Decameron may be your best bet. Tune in to Netflix on July 25 to catch the premiere!