It is a widely held belief in certain circles that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations impede ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Without minimizing the inner life of our pets – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict holds water is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since Merv is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
