It is a common warning among many that sharing custody a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in pet despair, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
