It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations impede ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries piled on lush pines as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
