This is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – many owners speak of their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation holds water is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
