This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups prevent ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example 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 a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water remains rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think fake snow piled on lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. The character can feel a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film with this canine conflict is not terrible – but it's hardly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
