It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. If you need standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character comes across as a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
