It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
