This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements impede individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. The narrative is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think flurries surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform this December.
