This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for pet content. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the title character is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.
