This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The plot proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think flurries piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer manages acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for the split would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
