It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents attest to their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think flurries surrounding green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – even if it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
