This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup holds water is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries piled on verdant foliage as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
