It is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation might seem more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
