This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a dog after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides 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. The character can feel a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
