It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. Apparently, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow piled on green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for pet content. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
