It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively seems rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries clinging to green trees as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
