It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of animals – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think flurries clinging to green trees as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
