It is a widely held belief among many that sharing custody a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
