It is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the mental health of animals – countless people speak of their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in pet despair, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow clinging to green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
