It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
