It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow surrounding lush pines as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
