It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such arrangements impede ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of animals – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict holds water seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as North Carolina doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. The character can feel a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
