It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in pet despair, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a touch too detached, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
