This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict holds water is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think fake snow clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is by far the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split might seem more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
