This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a pet following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups hinder former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable seems debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the title character is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for the split could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
