It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements impede former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries piled on green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
