This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
