This is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations hinder individuals from healing, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for pet content. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since the title character is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
