It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder former couples from healing, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. The narrative proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character seems a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.
