It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying across the board. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as North Carolina stands in for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
