This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth are modest. The narrative proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think flurries clinging to green trees as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a touch too detached, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation would feel more adult and realistic 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 – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
