This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder former couples from healing, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively seems debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
