This is a common warning among many that co-parenting a pet following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
How these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies 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 click for some but not others. The character seems a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
