This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split could have been more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
