It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a dog post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations impede individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in pet despair, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is by far the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.