This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations prevent former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents attest to their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
