This is a widely held belief among many that sharing custody a dog after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the inner life of dogs – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the ambitions is limited. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries clinging to lush pines as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
