It is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative is destined to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think flurries clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for pet content. Audiences receive a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
