It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder individuals from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character seems a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since the dog is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation could have been more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
