It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on this conflict holds water is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline is destined to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow clinging to lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
If these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, 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, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
