This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
