This is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such situations impede former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
