This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
