This is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a pet following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements hinder ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict holds water remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom 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 are better together. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries piled on lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, 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 title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split could have been more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise has potential – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
