This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a pet following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water remains a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
How these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog manages acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
