This is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split could have been more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
