It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable seems rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover 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 has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think flurries clinging to lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
