It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements prevent former couples from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for dog videos. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
