This is a common warning among many that co-parenting a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements impede former couples from healing, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – many owners attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation works effectively is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow piled on lush pines as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.
The Dog's Domain
If these standard ingredients come together 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 browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation would feel more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
