It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
