It is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think flurries piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
