It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such arrangements hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
Without minimizing the mental health of animals – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
