This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable seems rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow piled on lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
How these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
