It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. This is a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow piled on verdant foliage as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these standard ingredients merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to give weight to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video this December.