This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements prevent former couples from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict holds water remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
