This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations prevent former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer manages acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is by far the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
