This is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow clinging to green trees as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
How these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
