‘The Decameron’ Introduces TV’s Sexiest New Leading Man: Amar Chadha-Patel

In Florence, Italy in the year 1348, the pestilence has devastated the city, creating gruesome scenes of death and decay. Despite the grim setting, Netflix’s limited series The Decameron proves to be anything but somber. Inspired by Giovanni Boccaccio’s short story collection, the series portrays a group of nobility and their servants isolating together in a villa to escape the rampant plague.

Warning: Spoilers ahead.

Despite its historical backdrop, The Decameron is a surprisingly lighthearted comedy brimming with romantic and sexual escapades. When a group of single and flirtatious individuals are confined together, sparks are bound to fly. Central to many of these heated moments is Dioneo (Amar Chadha-Patel), a strikingly handsome doctor who quickly becomes the object of everyone’s desire.

Dioneo’s entrance is memorable, marked by his flowing black hair and broad shoulders. Initially, he’s seen tending to the incompetent Tindaro (Douggie McMeekin), a role that might not seem appealing at first, as Dioneo essentially serves as Tindaro’s caregiver.

However, upon arrival at the villa, Dioneo’s physique is fully revealed, capturing the attention of the married couple Neifile (Lou Gala) and Panfilo (Karan Gill), among others. As they attempt to discuss their celibacy, both are distracted by the sight of Dioneo undressing in the garden. Their lustful gazes underline the irresistible allure of his chiseled body.

Neifile, drawn to Dioneo almost like Eve to forbidden fruit, is captivated by his muscular form and drenched appearance. Her arousal is paralleled by Panfilo, who is similarly mesmerized and caught in his own moment of voyeurism.

Dioneo is not oblivious to his allure; he embraces his role as the magnetic center of attention. Amar Chadha-Patel’s performance shines as he navigates Dioneo’s confident yet mischievous persona. Dioneo sets his sights on Licisca (Tanya Reynolds), a servant masquerading as a noblewoman, leading to an intense affair by the end of Episode 2.

The sexual tension escalates in Episode 3. Dioneo and Licisca’s forbidden romance heats up, yet their different social statuses create significant obstacles. Moreover, Dioneo’s employer, Tindaro, also harbors feelings for Licisca, complicating the entangled relationships further.

The chemistry between Licisca and Dioneo is palpable yet tender. Dioneo’s attentiveness and gentle demeanor endear him to Licisca, showcasing a depth beyond his physical attractiveness. Chadha-Patel skillfully portrays a man conflicted by his affections for Licisca, delivering lines that resonate with genuine emotion.

No scene captures Dioneo’s rampant sex appeal better than a montage set to Sparks’ “All You Ever Think About is Sex.” The sequence showcases various characters engaging in intimate encounters, with Dioneo naturally at the center of the fervor, drawing everyone’s attention and desire.

Despite his allure, Dioneo is not faultless. His attempt to poison Tindaro to be with Licisca demonstrates his desperation. Panicking when the plot fails, Dioneo’s plea for Licisca to escape with him is charged with sincerity, making it almost justifiable despite his criminal actions.

Ultimately, class barriers prevail, but the character of Dioneo and Chadha-Patel’s portrayal are unforgettable. Though prohibited by societal constraints, his charm and magnetism leave a lasting impression, adding depth to The Decameron‘s narrative.

Source: The Daily Beast