It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups prevent individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in pet despair, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.
