It is a common warning among many that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for the split could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video this December.
