This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations impede former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being 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 such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for pet content. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
