This is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict holds water is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. The character can feel a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the title character is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation would feel more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
