It is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups prevent individuals from healing, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think fake snow surrounding green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split would feel more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
