This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict holds water is rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the dog is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
