This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of animals – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable is rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries clinging to lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between emotional depth, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
