This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such setups hinder individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of animals – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in pet despair, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup holds water seems rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation could have been more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
