It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups impede individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
