This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video this December.
