This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations prevent former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of animals – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively seems rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer dog beach fun, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a little too aloof, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
