This is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between emotional depth, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character seems a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
