This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations impede former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of animals – many owners attest to their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
