It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups hinder individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of animals – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable is debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline proves to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
If these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a very good boy.)
Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting is not terrible – though it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
