It is a common warning among many that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers 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 Anna seems a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
