This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
