This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of animals – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries surrounding lush pines as North Carolina doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
