It is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than a light film. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since Merv is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
