It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups prevent former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict holds water seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries piled on green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
