It is a widely held belief in certain circles that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements impede former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating across the board. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with split households. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup holds water seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think fake snow clinging to green trees as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. The character seems a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages acting depressed – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
