This is a widely held belief in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
If these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since Merv is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
