This is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a pet post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. We have here a holiday release 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, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
