This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to split households. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot proves to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow piled on lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
