This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations hinder individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think flurries clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
