This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. If you need standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for pet content. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since the title character is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise has potential – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
