This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of animals – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding green trees as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
