It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video this December.
