This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. The plot unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow clinging to green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. The character seems a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video this December.
