This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think flurries surrounding lush pines as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – even if it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
