This is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable seems debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. 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 post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think flurries clinging to lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends 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 pet content. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the title character is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
