This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations impede former couples from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters 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 depth is limited. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries piled on verdant foliage as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives 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 just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
