This is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a dog following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.
Without minimizing the mental health of our pets – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. The narrative proves to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the dog is by far the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.
