This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in pet despair, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water seems a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The plot proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think flurries surrounding lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
