This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life 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 works effectively seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character seems a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
