This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict holds water is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think flurries piled on green trees as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. Audiences receive a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
