This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think fake snow clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation would feel more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
