It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such arrangements prevent individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The narrative proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
