This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries clinging to lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since Merv is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
