It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable seems rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot proves to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – think flurries surrounding lush pines as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
