This is a common warning among many that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively seems rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (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 undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries clinging to green trees as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for the split would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
