It is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations hinder former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think flurries piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
How these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
