It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations impede former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – many owners speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively is rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow clinging to lush pines as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since the dog is by far the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation would feel more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
