This is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of our pets – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries clinging to green trees as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
