This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth are modest. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. The character seems a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
