This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow piled on lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
