This is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements impede former couples from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable is rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only 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. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries piled on lush pines as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
If these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since the dog is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.
