It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched 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 belong with each other. Ensemble players – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think fake snow surrounding lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for the split might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
