It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development 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 – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable seems debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character seems a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.