This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
