This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a pet following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements hinder individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is rather doubtful.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow clinging to green trees as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
Whether these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a great one either.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform on December 10th.
