This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow surrounding lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the dog is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
