It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – many owners speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
