This is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such situations impede ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in canine melancholy, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively seems a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The narrative proves to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think fake snow piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation might seem more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
