This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups impede ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist 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 speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video this December.
