It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such arrangements impede former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.
