It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups hinder former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of animals – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries piled on green trees as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
If these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.
