It is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder former couples from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think fake snow surrounding verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video this December.
