This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of animals – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. If you need standout portrayal in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the title character is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
