It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups prevent former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think flurries surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since Merv is by far the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup would feel 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 is not terrible – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
