This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups impede individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
