It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
