This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements hinder individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – many owners speak of their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
