This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – pet parents attest to their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot proves to be simple and direct: 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, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
