It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think fake snow clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not 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 supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
