It is a common warning among many that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since Merv is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
