This is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations prevent individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of our pets – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries clinging to green trees as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for the split would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
