This is a common warning among many that co-parenting a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of animals – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions is limited. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. 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, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
