This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the mental health of our pets – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow piled on green trees as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, 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, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
