This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder former couples from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict holds water remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think fake snow surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
