This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
