This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to split households. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
