This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent former couples from healing, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup holds water is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
How these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
