It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively is a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing 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 realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
