This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups impede individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since Merv is by far the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
