This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries clinging to green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers 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 human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
