It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. If you need standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on this conflict holds water remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think flurries surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
