This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups impede individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict works effectively is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for the split could have been more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
