It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that sharing custody a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of animals – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character comes across as a bit too dry, particularly 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.)
Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation would feel more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
