This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – many owners speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need prime example in pet despair, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup holds water remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think fake snow piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split could have been more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
