This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations hinder individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of our pets – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. The character comes across as a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation might seem more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
