This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively seems debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries clinging to green trees as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation would feel more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.
