It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation works effectively is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries piled on lush pines as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style wavers between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for the split might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
