This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
