It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable is rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for dog videos. It provides a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character can feel a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
