It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of our pets – many owners attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively seems a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The plot unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character seems a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is by far the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
