This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in pet despair, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
