This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water is rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
