It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a dog after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations prevent former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
