This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks 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, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
