It is a widely held belief among many that sharing custody a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering the title character is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.
