This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups hinder individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
