It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow clinging to green trees as North Carolina doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split could have been more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
