It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations prevent former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of animals – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
How these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character can feel a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the title character is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
