This is a common warning among many that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups prevent ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
How these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
