It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of animals – many owners attest to their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
