It is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups impede individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively seems a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
