This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
