This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for pet content. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself manages acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
