This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups impede individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively seems rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think flurries clinging to green trees as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for dog videos. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video this December.
