This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements prevent ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
