This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for dog videos. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, especially when alongside 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 a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
