This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries clinging to lush pines as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
