It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, one need only look a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries piled on green trees as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
How these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering the title character is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
