This is a widely held belief in certain circles that sharing custody a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by 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. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
