It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations prevent individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer manages acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation would feel more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
