This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups impede individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
