This is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow piled on lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
