It is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation holds water is rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on green trees as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the dog is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
