This is a common warning among many that sharing custody a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a wealth 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 does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
