It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
While respecting the inner life of animals – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the title character is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
