It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding green trees as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. This is not Cox's performance, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
