This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of animals – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need prime example in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup holds water remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the dog is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation would feel more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
