This is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict holds water seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a touch too detached, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
