This is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in pet despair, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in acting depressed – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
