It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
