It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to feel down.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is by far the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
