This is a common warning among many that co-parenting a canine companion following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and while this leads to some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
