Wondrous Boccaccio

The movie Wondrous Boccaccio, released in 2015 and directed by the Taviani brothers, is a modern adaptation of Giovanni Boccaccio's renowned Decameron - a collection of novellas written in the 14th century during the time of the Black Death. The movie is set in Florence, Italy in the midst of an outbreak of the plague, which has devastated the city and left a trail of death and destruction in its wake.

The movie is split into ten different storylines, each based on one of the stories from the Decameron. All ten stories are interwoven together, revolving around a group of young people who have fled the city in search of safety in the countryside. They pass the time telling each other tales of love, passion, and death - drawing upon the tradition of the medieval storyteller to both comfort and distract themselves from the devastating effects of the plague.

Throughout the movie, the themes of love and loss are explored. Several of the stories center around two lovers who are forced to overcome obstacles to be together. In one story, a knight falls in love with a farmer's daughter, but their different social classes threaten to keep them apart. In another, a man disguises himself as a woman to gain access to the woman he loves, only to be discovered and punished. These tales of love and passion are mirrored by stories of loss and heartbreak, often brought about by the ravages of the plague itself.

At the heart of the movie is the message that life can be unpredictable, full of both joy and sorrow. While the characters in the movie cannot control the events around them, they find solace in the power of storytelling. They are able to use their imaginations to escape the harsh realities of the world and to connect with each other on a deeper level. The movie is, therefore, a testament to the enduring power of storytelling - even in the darkest of times.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of the movie is its stunning cinematography. The Taviani brothers have created a visually striking film, with vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes. The countryside and the city are shot in such a way that they convey both the beauty and the horror of the world in which the characters live. Every frame of the movie is carefully crafted, drawing the viewer into the world of the Decameron and allowing them to fully immerse themselves in these tales of love, loss, and the power of storytelling.

The cast of the movie is also exceptional, with several standout performances. Lello Arena, Paola Cortellesi, and Carolina Crescentini shine in particular as the trio of characters who act as the backbone of the movie - linking the various stories together and providing a sense of continuity throughout. Their chemistry is palpable, and they are able to create a sense of camaraderie and empathy that is essential to the movie's success.

Overall, Wondrous Boccaccio is a beautiful and poignant movie. It is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, and a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The Taviani brothers have created a work of art that is both timeless and relevant, reminding us of the importance of love, community, and our capacity for imagination even in the darkest of times.