This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups impede individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of animals – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think fake snow clinging to lush pines as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
If these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
