It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. Its storyline is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
