This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of animals – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
Merv tries to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
