It is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations impede individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. As it turns out, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
How these standard ingredients coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split would feel more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
