It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character seems a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since Merv is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
