This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation works effectively seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split could have been more grounded and mature with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
