This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation works effectively is rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the dog is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
