This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable seems rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The plot unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a touch too detached, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer manages acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video this December.
