This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. 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 life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including familiar faces – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think fake snow piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
