It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. If you need standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages acting depressed – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
