It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a pet following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think flurries clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character seems a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
