The Decameron

The Decameron is a 1971 movie that captures the heart, soul, and flair of the Italian cinematic universe. This masterpiece, directed and written by the legendary Italian filmmaker, Pier Paolo Pasolini, is derived from the book "The Decameron” by Giovanni Boccaccio. The movie stars the likes of Franco Citti, Ninetto Davoli, and Jovan Jovanovic, each renowned for their acting prowess, bringing an extra layer of depth and complexity to the story.

The movie essentially features nine episodes adapted from the original tales of Boccaccio's masterpiece. The stories, full of bawdy humor, clever trickery, and erotic undercurrents, often focus on the lower classes of the time and their escapades. Against the backdrop of the 14th century, The Decameron provides a window into the everyday lives and values of ordinary people. Above all else, this movie is a rich, vibrant, multi-faceted portrayal of the resilience of human spirit and desire.

Franco Citti, known for his rugged charm and emotional depth, proves to be perfectly cast for his role. He embodies the ribald, yet charming demeanor peculiar to the characters of the middle ages. Meanwhile, Ninetto Davoli brings out the innocence and mischief of his role, with a vibrant performance that steals the show in many scenes. Jovan Jovanovic also lends his striking presence and remarkable acting skills to further enrich the movie.

What sets The Decameron apart from other historical dramas, however, is its authentic approach. Pasolini, already renowned for his ability to blur the line between reality and fiction, treats the tales with a unique sensibility, accentuating their rawness. Rather than idealizing the time period of his stories, he captures their earthy, flesh-and-blood truth.

The movie is full of vivid and often candid imagery which, in conjunction with the delightful score from Ennio Morricone, not only embodies the atmosphere of the 14th-century setting but also encompasses Pasolini's unique cinematic touch. Landscapes, architecture, and costumes are rendered with meticulous care, giving the film a truly authentic feel.

Equally notable also is the humor that laces the movie throughout, turning ordinary and sometimes crude occurrences into sources of amusement. The director’s wry sense of humor is evident, allowing the viewer to appreciate the comic ironies of human existence. The movie is a clear demonstration that despite poverty, hardship, and the eternal struggle for survival, laughter is a profound and innate human response.

The Decameron, while comedic and entertaining, doesn't shy away from dealing with issues of morality. It delves into the dichotomy of virtue and vice, religion and sensuality, piety and profanity prevalent in a suppressed society. Pasolini plays with this duality, often juxtaposing the divine with the profane, the sacred with the secular.

Awash with symbolism and religious imagery, The Decameron explores themes of deception, lust, wit, and survival. It challenges societal norms and critiques the hypocrisy of institutions, all the while showcasing the raw and unembellished aspects of human nature. It's ground-breaking for its time and heralds a new approach to cinema that is imbued with passion, daring, and panache.

Despite the bawdiness and ribald humor, the underlying theme of all the stories is love – in all its diverse and complex forms. The tales depict love's triumph over adversity, in the sense of both personal longing and broader societal constraints. It testifies to the undying capacity of humans to seek love, to give love, and above all, to imagine and narrate love.

The Decameron offers a narrative marked with visual bravado, narrative audacity, and uninhibited storytelling. Pasolini’s film takes us on a journey to the heart of middle-aged Italy with its complex society, captivating folklore, and vibrant culture.

Whether you are a connoisseur of Italian cinema or are new to it, The Decameron has something for everyone. Its intricate narratives, brilliant performances, and Pasolini's audacious directorial style make it a time-capsule-like gem that offers a breathtaking and immersive viewing experience. It's a movie that prompts laughter, rouses the senses, and sparks reflection – a signature, dazzling creation from an awe-inspiring auteur, Pier Paolo Pasolini.