This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations hinder individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need prime example in pet despair, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance around this situation works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for pet content. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
