It is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a pet following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character seems a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
