Watch Decameron Nights

The movie Decameron Nights from 1953 is a romantic adventure film set in medieval Italy, directed by Hugo Fregonese and starring Joan Fontaine, Louis Jourdan, and Godfrey Tearle. The movie is based on a collection of stories written by Giovanni Boccaccio in the 14th century. The film follows the story of Andreuccio (Jourdan), a young man who embarks on a journey to Naples to seek his fortune. Along the way, he encounters a group of robbers who steal his clothes and leave him stranded in the middle of the road. Desperate for help, Andreuccio seeks refuge in a nearby tomb and stumbles upon a hidden treasure.

As Andreuccio continues his journey, he meets a beautiful woman named Pampinea (Fontaine) who is on her way to the city of Florence. Despite their differences in social status and origin, the two develop a strong connection, and Pampinea invites Andreuccio to join her and her friends at a villa in the countryside.

At the villa, Pampinea and her companions tell one another stories of love, lust, and deception, inspired by Boccaccio's Decameron. Among the stories they share is that of the cunning Calandrino and his attempts to win the love of Madonna Filippa, as well as the tale of a knight who is tricked into believing that his wife is unfaithful.

Throughout the movie, the themes of love, lust, and deception are explored through the lives of the characters, their interwoven relationships, and the stories they tell each other. The film's lush cinematography and beautiful Italian scenery provide the perfect backdrop for this romantic adventure.

Joan Fontaine delivers a standout performance as Pampinea, a strong-willed and intelligent woman who challenges societal norms and expectations. Louis Jourdan also shines in his role as Andreuccio, a young man who is eager to make his mark on the world.

Godfrey Tearle lends his talent to the role of an elderly man who provides wisdom and guidance to the characters throughout the film. Other notable performances include those of Basil Sydney, who plays the knight who is deceived by his wife, and Carlo Ninchi, who portrays Calandrino, the hapless suitor.

The movie's score, composed by Richard Addinsell, adds to the film's romantic and adventurous tone, and the costumes and set designs capture the essence of medieval Italy.

Overall, Decameron Nights is an enchanting film that showcases the talent of its cast and the beauty of its setting. Its exploration of love, lust, and deception, told through the rich tapestry of Boccaccio's stories, makes it a timeless cinematic achievement.

Decameron Nights is a 1953 adventure movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2.