It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow clinging to green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since the title character is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
