This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
