It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations prevent former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
