It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively seems debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as North Carolina doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, 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 catalyst for the split would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
