It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such setups prevent ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries piled on green trees as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness is not earned for the romantic plot. The tone vacillates between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
