It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by 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 presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
