This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups impede ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to feel down.
While respecting the mental health of animals – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. The narrative unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer manages looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the title character is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
