This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent former couples from healing, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively is rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow clinging to green trees as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
How these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself manages acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
