It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer manages looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
