This is a common warning among many that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
