It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations impede former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding green trees as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for the split would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
