It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of animals – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation works effectively seems rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the human side of the story. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
