This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow clinging to lush pines as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character seems a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
