It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult coping with split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for the split would feel more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
