It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity are modest. The plot proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries clinging to green trees as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise has potential – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
