This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The plot proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding green trees as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
