It is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in pet despair, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable remains debatable at best.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
If these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility 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. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.
