This is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such situations impede ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
