This is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow clinging to green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character seems a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
