This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations impede former couples from healing, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity are modest. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
