It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
