This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than a light film. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
How these familiar elements coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself manages acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise has potential – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
