This is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations impede ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in pet despair, one need only look another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow clinging to green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
