It is a common warning among many that co-parenting a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of our pets – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
