It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – many owners attest to their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The plot proves to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries piled on lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
