It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of animals – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict works effectively seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity are modest. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
