It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth are modest. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow piled on green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
