It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of animals – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict holds water is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think flurries surrounding lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character comes across as a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video this December.
