It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think flurries surrounding green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of 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, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
