This is a widely held belief in certain circles that sharing custody a dog following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a very good boy.)
The story strives to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
