This is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups impede individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in pet despair, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The plot proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think fake snow surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split could have been more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
