It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of our pets – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation works effectively seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform this December.
