It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable seems rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
How these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
