It is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable remains debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise is not earned for the romantic plot. The tone vacillates between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
