It is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video this December.
