This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups prevent ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think flurries piled on green trees as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split could have been more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
