This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think flurries clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
