This is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries clinging to lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since the title character is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
