This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups impede former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow piled on lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
