It is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations prevent individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who browse regularly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the dog is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation could have been more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
