It is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations impede former couples from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation would feel more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
