This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a pet following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations prevent former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, one need only look another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer manages acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the title character is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
