It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for the split would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform this December.
