It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The narrative proves to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Cox's performance, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split could have been more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
