This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations prevent former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need standout portrayal in pet despair, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries surrounding lush pines as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between emotional depth, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
