This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – many owners attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
