This is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of our pets – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation works effectively is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
How these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character seems a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict is not terrible – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
