It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of animals – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup holds water remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow surrounding lush pines as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
How these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
