This is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating across the board. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation works effectively remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The tone wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the title character is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
