It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
