This is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations impede individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup holds water seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict is not terrible – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
