This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups hinder ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries clinging to lush pines as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split might seem more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
