It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict holds water remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed 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, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
