It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think fake snow surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
