This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
How these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
