This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a dog following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
