It is a common warning among many that sharing custody a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the mental health of our pets – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. This is not Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
