This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries piled on green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for the split could have been more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
