It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in pet despair, one need only look a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
