This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements prevent ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation works effectively remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
If these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
