It is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need standout portrayal in pet despair, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the title character is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
