This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The plot unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.
