It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups prevent former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The plot proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer manages looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
