It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable seems debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
