This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on this conflict works effectively remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think fake snow piled on lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
