It is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in pet despair, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively is rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character can feel a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split would feel more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
