It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries clinging to green trees as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone vacillates between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself manages acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
