It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the title character is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
