This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups prevent former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth are modest. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split could have been more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
