This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such setups prevent individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
