This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation works effectively is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide 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. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
